It can be difficult to know the difference between minor eye irritation and a true medical emergency. However, when it comes to your vision, waiting can have serious consequences. At Optical Illusionz, we want to empower you to act quickly and confidently when faced with a potential crisis.
When to Seek Emergency Eye Care: Signs You Can’t Ignore
When to Seek Emergency Eye Care: Signs You Can’t Ignore
Sudden and Significant Vision Changes
One of the most urgent red flags is any sudden change in your ability to see. This includes an abrupt onset of blurry vision, a sudden loss of all or part of your vision (like a curtain falling over your eye), or the appearance of significant distortions. These symptoms can indicate a serious underlying problem, such as a retinal detachment or a stroke affecting the eye, and require immediate medical attention.
Eye Injury or Foreign Object
Any form of physical trauma to the eye is a cause for concern. This includes being poked, hit, or having a foreign object stuck in your eye. Chemical splashes are also a critical emergency. If you suffer an eye injury, do not rub it or attempt to remove a lodged object yourself. For chemical exposures, flush the eye with clean water for at least 15 minutes and then seek immediate help
Flashes of Light and a Shower of Floaters
While seeing an occasional "floater" can be normal, a sudden increase in their number—often described as a "shower" or "swarm"—is a serious warning sign. If these are accompanied by flashes of light, it could signal that your retina is at risk of tearing or detaching.
Severe Pain or Signs of Infection
Eye pain is not something to be taken lightly. Severe, unexplained pain in or around your eye, especially if accompanied by nausea and a red eye, can be a sign of acute glaucoma. Additionally, significant swelling, tenderness, and unusual discharge are signs of a serious infection that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. In these cases, it's crucial to find your nearest eye doctor who can provide an eye exam today.
At Optical Illusionz, we are equipped to provide the urgent emergency eye care you need. Call our nearest location immediately for instructions or walk in for an emergency assessment.