Eye emergencies can occur at any time. They are often time-sensitive and require quick and appropriate treatment. If untreated, the conditions can lead to vision loss or permanent blindness. Patients need to seek immediate medical attention to avoid vision loss or eye damage. Many people do not know how to handle eye emergencies. Others ignore what appear to be minor symptoms.

Severe Eye Pain

Severe eye pain is often a cause for emergency eye care. Eye pain can occur inside or outside the eye and can be a symptom of various eye conditions.
Pain can be due to:
 

• Foreign objects

• Blunt trauma

• Corneal abrasion

• Conjunctivitis

• Glaucoma

If you experience pain from trauma, visit your optometrist immediately. Eyelid cuts or tears and blood in the eye accompanied by vision changes require urgent care.

Chemical Burns 

Chemical splashes or burns are common eye emergencies that often occur in the home or workplace. The severity of the condition depends on the chemical, which could be a liquid or powder.

Even minor splashes can cause long-term damage. Chemical burns can cause corneal damage and, in severe cases, result in permanent vision loss. Visit an emergency room immediately if any chemical gets in your eye. Some injuries may require surgery.

Eye Trauma

Eye trauma occurs when an individual receives a blow or hit to the eye. It can range in severity from minor to severe, depending on the source of the impact. An eye injury can lead to swelling or a puncture. It is vital to receive emergency treatment for eye injuries.

Even a light blow to the eye can result in significant damage that may require surgery. If you experience a black eye or visual disturbance, go to the emergency room, or visit an ophthalmologist for evaluation.

Foreign Object in the Eye

Flying objects or materials can cause serious eye injuries that require emergency care. This type of injury is prevalent among individuals working with heavy machinery or in construction. Foreign objects can be metal or glass shards, darts, wood chips, or other sharp objects. If the object gets stuck in the eye, do not try to remove it, as it could cause further injury. Trauma from a sharp object can cause vision changes.

Changes in Vision 

Experiencing a change in central or peripheral vision is a reason to seek emergency eye care. Blurry or double vision (diplopia) can indicate vision issues but can also be symptoms of a severe eye condition. Diplopia can be a sign of a brain or eye nerve issue. It can be a symptom of keratoconus, severe astigmatism, pterygium, iritis, or dry eye.

Irritation or Redness

Most people who visit the eye doctor suffer from eye irritation or redness. While the conditions often do not require urgent care, there are times you need to get to the emergency room. If the redness or irritation accompanies pain, light sensitivity, or blurry vision, there is reason to be concerned.

The symptoms could indicate corneal abrasion, uveitis, or herpes keratitis. Other reasons to seek emergency eye care include severe light sensitivity, eye discharge, and severe burning or itching. If you have questions about your symptoms, contact an eye specialist.

For more information on seeking emergency eye care and understanding urgent eye conditions, visit Premier Eye Care Optometry at our San Bernardino, California, office. Call (909) 757-0700 to schedule an appointment today.