Eye Emergencies, Explained.
Personalized Eye Care for PEDIATRICS and ADULTS.
Eye Injuries or Trauma
An injury to the eye or the surrounding structures may result from a wide range of accidents and its severity can vary from minor injuries to severe, vision-threatening conditions. Symptoms of eye trauma can include pain, redness, swelling, blurred vision, and in severe cases, loss of vision.
Foreign Body
A foreign body is an object that has entered the eye and become lodged in the cornea. Corneal foreign bodies are a common eye injury and can result from outdoor activities, welding, yard work, contact lenses, plexiglass, sand, dust, and splinters.
Corneal Abrasions
Corneal abrasions can occur due to a variety of causes, including: Foreign objects, contact lenses, trauma, fingernails, chemical exposure. Symptoms may include: Pain, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, foreign body sensation, blurred or decreased vision.
Corneal Ulcers
A corneal ulcer is a serious eye condition characterized by an open sore or lesion on the cornea, which is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections, but it can also result from other factors, such as trauma or underlying eye diseases. They require prompt medical attention, as they can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
Infections & Conjunctivitis
Commonly known as "pink eye," conjunctivitis is an eye infection caused by bacteria or viruses. Conjunctivitis can be highly contagious and is a common eye condition, especially among children.
Painful/ Sore Eye
A painful red eye can be a symptom of various eye conditions that may be related to auto-immune conditions, herpes, trauma, glaucoma, abrasions, or conjunctivitis.
Post Operative Pain
This refers to discomfort or pain experienced after undergoing eye surgery such as cataracts, lasik, or glaucoma surgery. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by worsening symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately, as it could indicate a complication or infection.
Styes, Lumps, Bumps
Lumps or bumps on or around the eye can be caused by a stye or eyelid infection. Early diagnosis and treatment can be crucial in managing potential eye conditions and preventing complications.
Chemical Burns
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Occurs when a harmful chemical substance comes into contact with the eye and causes damage to the ocular tissues. It may range from mild irritation to severe damage that can potentially lead to vision loss. These burns require immediate medical attention.
Sudden Vision Loss
Also referred to as sudden visual impairment or sudden blindness, is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Sudden vision loss can occur in one or both eyes and may be temporary or permanent. It may result from retinal detachments, strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other medical conditions.
RED Eye
A common eye condition that may result in a bloodshot appearance of the white part of the eye. Redness in the eye can be caused by underlying eye conditions, infections, environmental factors, or systemic health issues. Here are some common causes of a red-eye
Sudden Floaters or Flashes
If you suddenly notice a significant increase in floaters, especially if they are accompanied by flashes of light, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. These changes could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment, which requires immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent vision loss.
To prevent the spread of conjunctivitis:
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Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before touching your eyes or face.
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Avoid Touching Your Eyes: Try to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can transfer bacteria from your hands to your eyes.
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Use Personal Items: Do not share personal items like towels, washcloths, or eye makeup with others if you have bacterial conjunctivitis.
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Stay Home: If you or your child has bacterial conjunctivitis, it's a good idea to stay home from school or work until a healthcare professional determines it is safe to return.
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Dispose of Contaminated Items: Throw away disposable contact lenses, contact lens cases, and any eye cosmetics used while infected.
Emergency Eye Care - Do’s and Dont’s
Do’s
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Flush the eyes with cold water
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Seek care from an eye care physician
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Wash hands thoroughly before touching the eye
Don’ts:
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Rub or apply pressure to your eye
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Try to remove foreign objects that are stuck in the eye
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Use tweezers or any other tools in your eye
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Use unprescribed medications or ointments in the eye
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Avoid using "Red Out" drops as they may mask symptoms.