Recognizing Eye Emergencies: When to Seek Immediate Care

Your eyes are vital to your daily life, yet they can be vulnerable to injuries, infections, or other emergencies that require immediate attention. Knowing how to recognize the signs of an eye emergency can make all the difference in protecting your vision and ensuring long-term eye health. At Lakeview Optometry, we prioritize your eye care and are here to guide you through what to watch for and when to seek help.
 

Common Signs of an Eye Emergency

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s essential to contact an eye care professional right away:

• Sudden Vision Loss: Sudden, unexplained loss of vision in one or both eyes is a serious concern. This could be a sign of conditions like retinal detachment, or optic nerve issues.
   

• Severe Eye Pain: Intense, persistent pain in your eye can indicate an underlying problem, such as acute glaucoma, a corneal abrasion, or an infection.
   

• Flashes of Light or Floaters: Experiencing sudden flashes of light or a significant increase in floaters may signal retinal detachment, which requires immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
   

• Redness, Swelling, or Discharge: If your eye becomes unusually red, swollen, or produces yellow or green discharge, it could be due to an infection, chemical exposure, or trauma.
   

• Foreign Object in the Eye: Getting something stuck in your eye, such as metal, glass, or chemicals, can damage the delicate tissues and should be addressed immediately.
   

• Double Vision: Persistent double vision could point to serious neurological or eye issues, such as a stroke or damage to the eye muscles.
   

• Eye Trauma: Any direct injury to the eye, such as a blow to the face or an accident, should not be ignored, even if symptoms seem mild at first.
   

What to Do in an Eye Emergency

If you suspect you’re dealing with an eye emergency, it’s important to stay calm and avoid touching your eye. Rubbing or pressing on your eye can worsen the situation and potentially cause further damage. Until you’ve consulted a professional, it’s best to keep your hands away from the affected area.
 

Next, seek immediate care. Contact Lakeview Optometry or visit your nearest emergency eye care center without delay. A prompt evaluation and timely treatment can prevent complications and help protect your vision.

In the meantime, follow the appropriate first-aid guidelines. If chemicals have splashed into your eye, rinse it thoroughly with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention right away. If a sharp object is stuck in your eye, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, cover the eye with a protective shield and proceed directly to an emergency facility for professional care.
 

Preventing Eye Emergencies

While some emergencies are unavoidable, you can take steps to minimize risks:

• Wear protective eyewear during sports, DIY projects, or any activity where debris is present.
   

• Practice proper hygiene with contact lenses.
   

• Schedule regular eye exams to detect potential issues early.
   

Why Choose Lakeview Optometry for Emergency Eye Care

We are equipped to handle a range of eye emergencies. Our experienced optometrist and advanced diagnostic technology allow us to provide timely and effective care. Whether it’s an infection, injury, or unexplained symptoms, we’re here to protect your vision and overall eye health.
 

If you’re experiencing an eye emergency, contact Lakeview Optometry for expert care. Visit our office in Monticello, Indiana, or call (574) 583-5531 to book an appointment today.