Your delicate and complex eyes are essential to your day-to-day activities. Thanks to them, you can observe and interact with the environment around you. Yet, eye emergencies can happen at any time and, if untreated, can become very serious. The following ten scenarios call for rapid medical assistance for an eye emergency.

Sudden Vision Loss

Sudden vision loss is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It can indicate a severe underlying problem like a retinal detachment or a stroke. Get emergency medical assistance if one or both of your eyes suddenly lose vision.

Eye Pain

A foreign body in the eye, an infection, or a more severe illness like glaucoma can all cause eye pain. When viruses or bacteria get inside the eye, it can become infected. Foreign objects such as metal or wood splinters can also cause extreme discomfort and pain in the eye. 

Increased eye pressure due to glaucoma damages the optic nerve and eventually results in visual loss. Get immediate medical assistance if you have severe or persistent eye pain.

Eye Trauma

Eye trauma can occur due to accidents, sports injuries, or violent assaults. Get emergency medical assistance if anything strikes or pierces your eye. Eye trauma can seriously harm the eye, even resulting in blindness. Sometimes, the damage may not be apparent immediately, but it may eventually lead to vision issues.

Chemical Exposure

Exposure can occur when a chemical substance, such as cleaning products or pool chemicals, enters your eye. They can cause severe damage to the eye and even blindness. Moreover, it might result in corneal ulcers and burns. Get immediate medical assistance if a chemical substance gets into your eye.

Photophobia

The condition known as photophobia causes the eyes to be susceptible to light. It can be a symptom of a deeper issue, like an eye infection or inflammation. It may occasionally indicate a more severe disease, including meningitis or a brain tumor. If you experience a sudden onset of photophobia, seek medical attention.

Flashes and Floaters

The aging process frequently includes flashes and floaters. But if they suddenly become more frequent or intense, it may indicate a retinal rupture or detachment. Seek medical attention if you experience a sudden onset of flashes and floaters.

Eye Infections

Conjunctivitis is the medical term for an inflammation of the conjunctiva. Bacteria, viruses, or allergies may be to blame for your condition. Conjunctivitis can be very contagious and needs immediate treatment. Get medical treatment for symptoms, including redness, irritation, or eye discharge.

Corneal Abrasion

A sharp object, rubbing the eye too vigorously, or an object in the eye can lead to corneal abrasion. Get medical help if you develop discomfort, redness, or tears.

Bleeding in the Eye

A subconjunctival hemorrhage, or eye bleeding, may indicate a significant underlying illness such as excessive blood pressure or a blood issue. If you experience a sudden onset of bleeding in the eye, seek medical attention.

Conclusion

It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention for an eye emergency in any of the abovementioned situations. Delay in treatment can lead to permanent damage and even blindness. Get immediate medical treatment if you encounter any of these symptoms. Remember, early detection and treatment can save your vision.

For more on eye emergencies, visit Vision Concept at our Houston, Texas, office. Call (281) 688-6400 to schedule an appointment today.