When your eyes are on the line, knowing what to do next can make all the difference. Here’s how to handle common emergencies until you can reach your local optometrist.
What Counts as an Eye Emergency?
A true eye emergency isn’t just uncomfortable – it’s potentially vision-threatening. At Accurate Family Vision in Gilbert, we treat a wide range of ocular issues during our office hours, but knowing when to act (and how) is just as important as knowing where to go.
Any sudden change in vision, pain, or trauma should be treated seriously. If you’re wondering whether you’re overreacting – don’t. When it comes to your sight, erring on the side of caution can prevent long-term damage.
Common Eye Emergencies You Shouldn't Ignore
Scratched Cornea
Also called a corneal abrasion, this injury might come from a fingernail, pet, or stray piece of paper. It often feels like something’s still in your eye – even if there isn’t.
Do:
- Rinse your eye with sterile saline or clean water.
- Blink frequently to encourage natural tear production.
Don’t:
- Rub your eye.
- Try to remove anything stuck under the eyelid.
A scratched eye can become infected quickly, so prompt care matters.
Foreign Object in the Eye
Whether it’s metal shavings, wood, or dust, a foreign object can lead to major complications if left untreated.
Do:
- Flush your eye gently with saline.
- Keep your eye closed and covered on your way to the clinic.
Don’t:
- Attempt to dig anything out yourself.
- Use tweezers or cotton swabs near your eye.
Even a small speck can cause a big problem if it scratches or embeds itself in the cornea.
Sudden Vision Loss
If your vision goes blurry or black in one or both eyes, even temporarily, seek help right away.
Do:
- Stay calm and avoid driving yourself.
- Note any other symptoms like headache or weakness.
Don’t:
- Assume it will resolve on its own.
- Wait to “see how it goes” overnight.
This could indicate retinal detachment, stroke, or another critical issue – every minute counts.
Eye Trauma and Chemical Exposure
Blunt Force Trauma
Even if the eye looks fine on the outside, internal damage can still occur.
Do:
- Apply a cold compress gently to reduce swelling.
- Keep your head elevated.
Don’t:
- Apply pressure to the eye.
- Ignore symptoms like light sensitivity or new floaters.
Internal bleeding or retinal injury may not show up right away, which is why follow-up with an optometrist is essential.
Chemical Injuries
Whether from household cleaners or industrial solvents, chemical exposure can quickly damage the cornea.
Do:
- Rinse the eye immediately with cool water or saline for at least 15 minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if they’re in.
Don’t:
- Delay rinsing, even if you plan to visit a clinic.
- Use redness-relief drops – these can worsen chemical burns.
After you flush, come to our Gilbert office right away so we can assess the damage and start treatment.
Flashes and Floaters
Seeing flashes of light or a sudden shower of floaters can signal a serious retinal issue.
Do:
- Call your eye doctor immediately – especially if symptoms are sudden.
Don’t:
- Dismiss it as just “getting older.”
These signs may indicate a retinal tear or detachment. The faster we evaluate you, the better the chance of preserving your vision.
When to See Us – And When to Head to the ER
Accurate Family Vision manages most eye emergencies during office hours.
Come to us if: Your eye is injured but not bleeding heavily, you have a foreign object in the eye, or you’re experiencing sudden eye pain or vision changes.
Go to the ER if: You’re dealing with trauma that includes bleeding, your injury is part of a larger accident, or your symptoms began with a neurological event like a severe headache or confusion.
If it's happening during our hours, we're your first call.
Emergency Eye Care in Gilbert, AZ
Your eyes are too important to risk. At Accurate Family Vision, our team has the tools and training to handle urgent eye problems quickly and effectively – so you don’t have to spend hours in a crowded ER waiting room.
Whether it’s a scratched eye, a chemical splash, or something that just doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and give us a call. We’re located just across from Mercy Gilbert, and we’re ready to help.