Eye Emergencies

When to Seek Immediate Help

Eye emergencies can happen quickly and may involve a wide range of issues—such as injuries, chemical exposure, or sudden vision changes. Because your eyes are delicate and essential to everyday life, even a minor incident can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Whether it’s a scratch, cut, foreign object, or chemical burn, getting prompt care is critical to avoid long-term damage like partial vision loss or permanent blindness.

Common Types of Eye Emergencies

Eye emergencies may include:

• Trauma to the eye or eyelid

• Cuts, scratches, or bruising around the eye

• Foreign objects stuck in the eye

• Burns or chemical exposure

• Photic retinopathy (sun or laser-related retinal damage)

• Blunt force injuries

• Serious infections or flare-ups of underlying conditions (e.g. glaucoma or blood clots)

Even eye problems not caused by injury, such as a sudden red eye, eye pain, or vision loss, should be treated urgently.

Symptoms That May Indicate an Eye Emergency

If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:

• Bleeding or unusual discharge from the eye

• Sudden vision loss (partial or complete)

• Double vision or decreased vision

• Unequal pupil sizes

• Severe eye pain or redness

• Foreign body sensation

• Sensitivity to light

• Eyes that don’t move together or are bulging

• New or intense headaches with eye pain

• Nausea or dizziness accompanying vision changes

Black Eye and Blunt Trauma

A black eye typically results from blunt trauma to the eye or face. It may cause bruising, swelling, and discoloration around the eye, changing from black and blue to green or yellow over time. While most black eyes heal on their own in about two weeks, a forceful blow can also damage internal eye structures or cause hyphema (bleeding inside the eye), which requires prompt evaluation.

Chemical Injuries to the Eye

Chemical burns can occur from:

• Workplace accidents

• Household cleaners

• Garden products

• Fumes, aerosols, or solvents

Alkaline substances (like drain cleaner or lye) are more dangerous than acids, as they can cause lasting damage to the cornea. If exposed, flush the eye immediately with clean water or saline for at least 15 minutes and seek medical help right away.

What is Photic Retinopathy?

Photic retinopathy, or solar retinopathy, is damage to the retina from looking directly at the sun or bright light sources like lasers or welding torches. It can cause serious vision problems, especially when viewing a solar eclipse without protection. If you suspect retinal damage, get an immediate eye exam.

What to Do in Case of an Eye Injury

• Apply a cold compress gently to reduce swelling—but don’t apply pressure.

• If there’s visible bleeding inside the eye, cover both eyes with a clean cloth to prevent movement.

• Call your eye doctor or go to the ER immediately.

❌ Avoid These Mistakes

Do not:

• Rub or press on the eye

• Try to remove foreign objects stuck in the eye

• Use tweezers or tools in or around the eye

• Apply medications or ointments unless directed by a doctor

Contact Lens Wearers: Special Note

If you wear contact lenses, don’t try to remove them during an eye emergency—unless:

• You have a chemical injury and the lenses didn’t flush out with water

• You can’t reach medical care quickly

How to Prevent Eye Injuries

Prevention is key. Here are simple steps to protect your eyes:

• Wear safety goggles when using power tools or chemicals

• Use sports eye protection during high-risk activities

• Store sharp objects like scissors or knives out of children’s reach

• Handle cleaning products and chemicals with care

• Keep a safe distance from fireworks or sparklers

When in Doubt, Get Checked Out

Eye injuries can lead to permanent vision damage if not treated quickly. If you or a loved one experiences trauma, discomfort, or sudden changes in vision, don’t wait—seek medical attention immediately.