Emergency Eye Care 101: When to Seek Immediate Help for Eye Injuries or Sudden Vision Changes

Our eyes are delicate and complex organs that play a vital role in everyday life. When something goes wrong, whether it is an injury or a sudden change in vision, it is crucial to act quickly. At Vista Eyecare, we want to make sure you know the signs that indicate a true eye emergency and when to seek immediate professional help.
 

What Constitutes an Eye Emergency?

An eye emergency refers to any situation that threatens your vision or eye health and requires prompt medical attention. Ignoring symptoms or delaying care can result in permanent vision loss or serious complications.

Common causes of eye emergencies include:

• Trauma or injury: Direct impact, foreign objects, or exposure to chemicals

• Sudden vision loss or changes: Partial or complete loss of vision, blurred vision, or double vision

• Pain and redness: Especially if severe or accompanied by light sensitivity

• Flashes and floaters: Sudden increase in floaters or seeing flashes of light may signal retinal detachment

• Foreign objects: Debris or particles lodged in the eye

• Chemical exposure: Any chemical splash should be treated immediately

• Sudden onset of headaches with vision changes: May be a sign of a more serious neurological issue

 

Signs You Should Seek Immediate Eye Care

If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact an eye care professional or go to the emergency room without delay:

• Eye bleeding or discharge

• Sharp, throbbing, or persistent eye pain

• Visual disturbances like flashing lights, halos, or curtain-like shadows

• Sensitivity to light combined with redness

• Difficulty moving the eye or keeping it open

• Severe swelling or bruising around the eye

• Any loss of vision - sudden or progressive
 

What to Do in an Eye Emergency

While you wait for professional care:

• Do not rub the eye: This can worsen injuries

• Do not attempt to remove foreign objects: Let a professional handle this

• Flush the eye with clean water if exposed to chemicals

• Avoid applying pressure to the injured eye

• Protect the eye with a clean shield or cloth without applying pressure
 

When to Call Vista Eyecare

Many eye emergencies can be handled at our clinic. If you're unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call us right away. Our experienced team can guide you on your next steps and help preserve your vision. Quick action during an eye emergency can mean the difference between full recovery and permanent damage.
 

If you experience an eye emergency or have sudden changes in your vision, contact Vista Eyecare immediately for guidance and care. Visit our office in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, call (306) 955-3811, or book an appointment here today.