We all know that we should get to the doctor or the emergency room as soon as possible. But sometimes, it’s not so easy to tell when something is a true medical emergency and when it can wait until your next appointment. The good news is that most eye emergencies are easy to spot if you know what to look for. Read on as a Saginaw, TX optometrist lists some common eye emergencies that require immediate medical attention.
Eye pain
If you are experiencing eye pain, it could be an indication that there is an emergency. Pain can come from a multitude of causes, including infection and inflammation, trauma to the eye (such as a foreign object in the eye), or something more serious like cancer.
If you’re ever experiencing symptoms like eye pain, you should immediately seek medical attention.
Flashes or floaters
A flash is a sudden, usually brief visual disturbance that can occur when you’re looking at a plain surface such as a wall or ceiling. A floater is an optical distortion that makes it appear as though there are spots, squiggly lines, or dark patches in your field of vision.
Eye Infection or Inflammation
- Eye redness
- Swelling of the eye
- Pain in the affected eye(s)
- A discharge from the eye, either clear or colored
Changes in Vision or Sudden Blindness
If you suddenly lose vision or experience sudden blindness, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Not only can this be an emergency situation, but it could also indicate that you have had a stroke or another serious medical condition. If you are having trouble seeing, seeing double, or reading words, go to the doctor right away.
Chemicals or Irritants in the Eye
If you accidentally get something in your eye, flush it out with water right away. If it doesn’t come out, don’t rub your eyes or use a cotton swab to remove whatever is stuck in there—you could make things worse. Instead, go see an eye doctor immediately.
If you have blurred vision or difficulty seeing after getting something in your eye, head straight to the doctor as well.
Protect Your Eye Health
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to go to the emergency room. Your eye health is one of the most important things you can protect, so don’t take any chances when something goes wrong.
If you have more questions or need to see an eye doctor right away, please don’t hesitate to call our Saginaw, TX optometrist office anytime!
