Your eyes are an important part of your health, and while mild irritation or discomfort might not seem serious, some symptoms need quick attention. Sudden vision loss, noticeable eye discomfort, seeing flashes of light, or noticing a lot more floaters than usual could mean you’re experiencing an eye emergency, like a detached retina or glaucoma.
If you notice any of the symptoms, acting fast can help to protect your eyesight. Don’t wait– contact an eye care professional right away. For help and advice, book an appointment at your local Total Vision location. We’re here to help keep your eyes healthy!
Understanding Eye Emergencies
An eye emergency is typically a situation where your vision or eye health is at immediate risk and requires prompt medical attention. Ignoring such situations could lead to long-term damage or vision loss. Some emergencies may seem minor but the underlying cause could be more serious than it appears.
Here are some signs you should look out for:
Sudden Loss of Vision
It should be considered an urgent matter if you experience a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. Vision loss can occur due to issues like retinal detachment, a stroke affecting the optic nerve, or an eye-related infection. In this case, the faster you seek medical help, the better chance you can have at minimizing any potential damage.
Noticeable Eye Discomfort
Sharp or persistent eye discomfort may be your body’s way of signalling that something is wrong. Discomfort is often linked to conditions like corneal scratches or infections. While over-the-counter painkillers may help to reduce symptoms, they will not treat the underlying issue.
Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia)
Sudden, intense sensitivity to light paired with redness, discomfort, or blurry vision could indicate a serious eye condition such as uveitis or corneal damage. Fortunately, both conditions are treatable when diagnosed early, making getting treatment as soon as possible important.
Foreign Object in the Eye
A speck of dust or sand entering the eye can usually be flushed out easily. However, if a larger or sharp object enters your eye, attempting to remove it yourself may cause further harm. In this case, it is important to seek professional help to avoid damaging the cornea or other sensitive eye areas.
Sudden Appearance of Floaters or Flashes
Noticing sudden flashes of light, increased floaters (small shapes that seem to drift across your vision), or a “cobweb-like” visual effect could signal a retinal tear or detachment. This condition can occur without any discomfort but can still lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Blood or Redness in the Eye
Persistent redness or blood inside the eye can arise from trauma or infection. While some cases are benign, others may be caused by a condition like hyphema (blood pooling in the eye), which requires prompt treatment to prevent further complications.
Eye Discharge or Swelling
A thick discharge, unusual swelling, or crusted eyelids could indicate an infection such as conjunctivitis or cellulitis. If left untreated, such infections can grow into more serious complications like orbital cellulitis, which may require immediate medical intervention.
Tips for Preventing Eye Emergencies & Protecting Your Eyes
Taking proactive steps to care for your eye can make a difference in reducing the risk of eye emergencies and maintaining long-term eye health. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Wear protective eyewear: Use safety goggles or glasses when engaging in activities that could lead to eye injury, such as sports and home improvement projects.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands before touching your eyes or inserting contact lenses to reduce the risk of infections.
- Take screen breaks: Prolonged screen time can strain your eyes—take regular breaks and follow the 20-20-20 rule to avoid eye strain.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Consuming foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E and omega-3 fatty acids, such as leafy greens, fish, and carrots, can support eye health.
- Schedule regular eye exams: Routine checkups can help identify potential issues before they have time to progress.
- Protect against UV rays: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays when outside in the sun.
Following these tips can help you safeguard your eyes against preventable injuries and maintain healthy vision.
Don’t Wait—Act on Emergency Symptoms Today!
Recognizing the signs of an eye emergency can have an impact on protecting your vision and overall eye health. If you notice sudden vision changes, persistent discomfort, or any of the symptoms outlined above, don’t wait. Acting quickly can mean the difference between full recovery and long-lasting complications.
At Total Vision, we are here to help provide support and treatment when you need it most. Contact your local Total Vision location if you or your loved ones are experiencing potential eye emergency symptoms.
