Eye Care Emergencies To Take Directly to the Optometry Office ASAP

When a health crisis occurs, it is common to consider a visit to the nearest hospital emergency room for care. However, when the emergency is related to your eyes, consider a trip to your optometrist's office as the first stop.

Recent research has shown that treating eye emergencies at eye doctors' offices can potentially divert more than 1 million patients away from ERs each year. While doing so eases the burden on hospitals and their staff, it also ensures that you get the most prompt treatment and care.

Foreign Body Removal

The sharp pain, watery eyes and frightening blurred vision from a foreign body can coax a run to the bathroom for a quick self-removal attempt or an anxious run to the nearest emergency room. Take a deep breath, give us a quick call, and let our team know you are on your way!

Lost/Broken Contacts

After wearing contacts for years, they no longer feel like foreign objects until they tear or get lost in the eyelid. If these attempts to remove or reposition fail, call or visit your eye doctor for assistance.

Chemical Flushing

All chemicals should be considered dangerous if they encounter your eye. If you are wearing contacts, remove them immediately. Preferably flush your eyes with saline if you have it on hand, or with room temperature water. Seek urgent medical care from your trusted eye doctor.

Red & Burning Eyes

Don't try to give red and burning eyes time to fall by the wayside. Proper diagnosis by your eye doctor is essential to determine the best treatment.

Flashes and Floaters

Flashes and floaters must be addressed quickly as they could be an indication of a retinal defect such as retinal detachment, or a stroke. These can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated.

Sudden Vision Changes

If you or a loved one experiences sudden vision changes, call our Springfield office at (937) 399-0282. A prompt diagnosis by your optometrist is essential to restore vision to normal.