When it comes to eye health, some issues can wait for a routine visit, while others require urgent care. Recognizing the signs of an eye emergency can protect your vision and prevent lasting complications. Whether you’ve suffered an injury or are experiencing sudden symptoms, knowing when to act quickly can make all the difference.
 

Common Eye Emergencies

The following are examples of situations that may require immediate attention:

• Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes

• Eye trauma or injury, such as being struck in the eye or a foreign object entering the eye

• Flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters, which may indicate retinal detachment

• Chemical exposure to the eye

• Severe eye pain or redness

• Bleeding in or around the eye

• Sudden onset of double vision

• Swelling around the eye, especially if accompanied by fever or discharge

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek care right away.
 

Why You Should See an Optometrist First

In many cases, your optometrist is the best first point of contact during an eye emergency. Optometrists have the specialized knowledge needed to diagnose and manage a wide range of urgent eye issues, from infections and inflammations to injuries and foreign objects in the eye.

Another key benefit is faster access to care. Unlike busy emergency rooms, optometry offices can often provide same-day appointments for urgent eye concerns, allowing you to get the treatment you need without long waits.

Additionally, many eye emergencies can be effectively treated in an optometry office. Seeing your optometrist first can help you avoid unnecessary visits to the emergency room, which often come with longer wait times and higher medical costs.

At Eye Focus Northwest, our team is well-equipped to handle a wide variety of urgent eye conditions. We’re committed to providing fast, effective care when you need it most, helping you protect and preserve your vision.
 

Simple Steps to Protect Your Vision

While not all eye emergencies can be avoided, many can be prevented by taking simple, proactive steps. Wearing protective eyewear during activities like sports, home improvement projects, or when working with chemicals significantly reduces the risk of injury.

Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses, can help prevent infections. Additionally, managing chronic health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, attending regular eye exams, and addressing vision changes early can all contribute to preventing serious eye issues before they become emergencies.
 

Get in Touch with Eye Focus Northwest

Recognizing the signs of an eye emergency and knowing where to turn can make all the difference in preserving your sight. By taking preventive steps and seeking timely care, you can reduce your risk of complications and safeguard your long-term eye health.

If you're experiencing sudden changes in vision, eye pain, or ocular injury, contact Eye Focus Northwest for expert urgent eye care. Visit our office in Salem or Tigard, Oregon. Call (971) 808-2640 or (971) 202-1932 book an appointment today.