Eye Emergencies

Ocular Emergencies

When Eye Symptoms Require Immediate Attention

Some eye conditions require urgent or emergency care to protect vision and eye health. Prompt evaluation can make a critical difference in outcomes. If you experience sudden or severe eye symptoms, do not wait for them to resolve on their own.

Seek Immediate Eye Care If You Experience:

• Sudden vision loss or significant change in vision

• Flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or a curtain/shadow in your vision

• Eye pain, especially if severe or worsening

• Eye injury or trauma, including blunt force or penetrating injury

• Chemical exposure to the eye

• Red eye with pain, light sensitivity, or decreased vision

• Double vision or new-onset eye misalignment

• Foreign body in the eye that cannot be safely removed

These symptoms may indicate serious conditions involving the retina, cornea, optic nerve, or internal structures of the eye.

Common Ocular Emergencies We Evaluate

• Retinal tears or detachment

• Acute infections or inflammation (including uveitis)

• Corneal abrasions or ulcers

• Chemical burns

• Eye trauma or injuries

• Sudden visual disturbances

What To Do in an Eye Emergency

• Call our office immediately if symptoms occur during business hours.

• If symptoms are severe, sudden, or worsening, seek care at the nearest emergency room.

• Do not rub the eye, apply pressure, or use leftover medications unless instructed.

• For chemical exposure, flush the eye with clean water immediately and seek urgent care.

After-Hours Emergencies

If an ocular emergency occurs outside of regular office hours and you are unable to reach our office, proceed to the nearest emergency department. Follow-up care with our office may be needed after initial emergency treatment.

Why Prompt Care Matters

Some eye emergencies may cause permanent vision loss if not treated promptly—even if symptoms seem mild at first. Early evaluation allows for timely treatment and coordination of care when needed.

​​​​​​​When in Doubt—Get Checked

If you are unsure whether your symptoms are urgent, it is always safer to err on the side of evaluation. Our team is here to help guide you to the appropriate level of care. 👉 If you believe you are experiencing an eye emergency, seek immediate medical attention.