Not all vision problems require emergency care—but some absolutely do. Here's what counts as an eye emergency:
- Sudden loss or change in vision
- Severe eye pain
- Foreign objects stuck in the eye
- Cuts, scratches, or trauma to the eye area
- Exposure to chemicals or flashes of light
- Redness and swelling following an accident
These symptoms may signal serious conditions like retinal detachment, corneal abrasions, or chemical burns. Left untreated, these issues could lead to permanent vision loss.
If you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, it’s always safer to contact an optometrist in Calgary for advice. Market Mall Optometry can help assess the urgency and direct you to the right care.
Immediate Steps to Take in an Eye Emergency
When your eyes are injured or your vision suddenly changes, knowing what to do before you reach a professional can help minimize damage. Here are detailed steps to take depending on the type of emergency:
1. For Chemical Exposure:
If you’ve been splashed in the eye with cleaning products, battery acid, or other chemicals, flush your eye immediately with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Hold your eyelid open with clean fingers and let a gentle stream of water run over the eye. Do not use any eye drops unless instructed by a professional. Then seek emergency optometry care in NW Calgary right away.
2. For Foreign Objects:
If sand, metal, glass, or any foreign object enters your eye, avoid rubbing—it could scratch your cornea. Blink repeatedly to try to flush the object out with natural tears. If that doesn’t work, rinse the eye gently with saline or clean water. Never attempt to remove sharp or embedded objects—go directly to an optometrist or emergency room for safe removal.
3. For Sudden Vision Changes:
If you experience blurred vision, double vision, light flashes, floaters, or complete vision loss in one or both eyes, don’t ignore it. These symptoms can indicate retinal detachment, optic nerve damage, or stroke-related issues and an emergency eye assesment should be organized to prevent any further complications. Early treatment from a eye health professional may prevent long-term complications or blindness.
4. For Cuts or Blunt Trauma:
Trauma from sports injuries, falls, or impacts can lead to serious internal damage, even if there’s no visible bleeding. Apply a cold compress gently to reduce swelling—do not apply pressure, and never attempt to treat eye trauma on your own. Immediate assessment at a clinic like Market Mall Optometry in NW Calgary ensures prompt diagnosis and care.
5. For Contact Lens-Related Pain:
If your contact lenses cause burning, redness, or severe discomfort—especially after long hours of screen time or work-from-home use—it could be a sign of digital eye fatigue, a corneal abrasion, or infection. Remove the lenses if it’s safe to do so and call your optometrist. Eye care for remote workers in Calgary often involves digital eye strain relief and lens hygiene education to prevent repeat issues.
Local Expertise, Conveniently Located in NW Calgary
Location matters when it comes to your vision care. Having a qualified optometrist available close to home means easier follow-ups, more convenience, and personalized care that fits your schedule. The team at Market Mall Optometry provides professional eye emergency assessments in NW Calgary, using advanced diagnostic tools and years of experience to support your journey from start to finish. Contact us today for an expert opinion on your eye health.
FAQs
Q: What qualifies as an eye emergency?
A: Any sudden vision loss, trauma, chemical exposure, or sharp pain should be treated as an emergency. If you are unsure if your symptoms qualify as an eye emergency, do not hesitate to contact Market Mall Optometry for an assessment.
Q: What should I do immediately after an eye injury?
A: Avoid rubbing the eye, rinse if safe (for chemical exposure), and seek immediate care from a Calgary eye specialist.
Q: Should I go to a hospital or an eye clinic for an eye emergency in Calgary?
A: For severe trauma, head to the ER. For other emergencies, specialized eye clinics in Calgary are better equipped.
