Symptoms that may constitute an eye emergency include:
⦁ flashes of light
⦁ sudden loss or reduced vision
⦁ new onset double vision
⦁ sudden droopy eyelid(s)
⦁ swelling around the eye(s) and/or eyelid(s)
⦁ severe redness
⦁ new or sudden onset floaters
⦁ a curtain or shadow coming into your vision
⦁ eye pain radiating to the temple
⦁ severe light sensitivity
If you experience any or a combination of these symptoms then you should be scheduling a “MEDICAL EXAM” with us as soon as possible.
Eye Infections:
Some eye infections may be emergencies and others may not but there is no way for you to know the difference so it is still best to be seen as soon as possible. The following are a list of ways to help prevent an infection:
⦁ If you are a contact lens wearer, always follow the advice of the prescribing doctor regarding lens care and wear schedule. For more information please see “CONTACT LENSES” under “SERVICES”.
⦁ Remove eye makeup nightly and replace eye makeup every 3 months
⦁ Wash hands thoroughly before touching around the eyelid area or applying makeup
⦁ Do not routinely use tap water to rinse the eyes.
⦁ Wear goggles when swimming.
Trauma:
In most cases, if there is blunt trauma to the eye, it is best to go directly to the emergency room.
Foreign Body:
Whenever it is possible for a foreign object to enter the eye, protective eyewear should be worn. Examples include doing yard, wood, or metal work, or being in an environment where there is airborne debris. When you suspect you may have a foreign body avoid the following before coming in immediately for a Medical Examination:
⦁ Do not touch the eye or surrounding area
⦁ Do not attempt to remove the foreign body yourself
⦁ Do not apply pressure to the eye
⦁ If possible, have a family member or friend drive you to your appointment
Chemical injury:
If a chemical substance enters the eye then it must be rinsed for 20 minutes as soon as possible with water, eye wash, saline, or at an eye wash station . If the vision is reduced then you must go immediately to the emergency room or call the ambulance. Always bring the container the chemical was in with you. Certain chemicals must be treated differently than others depending on whether it is an acid or a base. Once the injury has been assessed by medical personnel, all of follow up care may be performed here at O.I.C. Integrative Optometry.
