Eye emergencies occur when foreign objects or chemicals come in contact with your naked eye. Eyes are vital organs, and just like any other organ, they are vulnerable to infections and injuries. When injured or affected, if eye injuries do not get the proper attention, they could develop a permanent effect on your vision health. Therefore, it is important to know the signs of severe eye emergencies that require immediate medical treatment.

Types of Eye Emergency

There are various types of eye emergencies, and some occur more often than others. Some of the most common eye emergencies include:
 

• Foreign Object in the Eye: When a small object gets in the eye, it causes irritation, eye damage, and sometimes loss of vision. Once a tiny particle, metal, or any foreign substance lands on your eye, you can take a few measures at home before getting medical help. First, remove your contact lenses if you have them on. Blink to clear your eye and try to avoid rubbing your eye. Let your eyes tear up with a saline solution (tears) to wash out the speck. Then, put up a steady stream of saline water directed at the speck to dislodge it from the surface of the eye.
   

  • If it is still in the eye, keep your eye closed and seek medical attention immediately. Avoid delaying as some particles like glass and metal can cause rusting spots on the eye if not removed fast.
     

  • If it is a large foreign object such as a glass or metal stuck in your eye, do not remove it. This is because applying pressure on it can cause severe damage. Seek help immediately.
     

• Chemical Burns: When you spray a chemical in your eye directly, you will suffer chemical burns. Toxic substances may come into contact with your eye, causing painful irritation. Sometimes, it may leave permanent damages to your eye and vision.
   

• Vision Change: An eye doctor should address sudden changes in your vision quality or total loss of vision immediately. Vision change occurs when there is a retinal or corneal defect. Flashing lights or spots within the eye indicate a detached retina. Corneal damage can cause sudden vision loss. Seek medical attention immediately.
   

• Black Eye: A black eye is an injury caused when something hits the eye and the area surrounding it. It forms a discoloration caused by bleeding under the skin accompanied by swelling. Typically, it appears as black or blue, and it changes to purple or green over time. The typical coloration comes back after a week.

Symptoms of an Eye Emergency

Eye emergencies occur everywhere, and different symptoms can detect them. These symptoms include:
 

• Bleeding or discharge from the eye
   

• Impaired vision
   

• Eye pain
   

• Sensitivity to light
   

• Unequal pupils’ size

Preventing Eye Emergencies

While eyes are prone to different injuries and emergencies, you can take specific measures to reduce the risk of eye emergencies. Make sure that you always wear protective eyewear when handling particles and chemicals. Also, wash your hands before touching your eyes.

Visit any of our eye doctors in Shelby Township or St. Clair Shores, Michigan, when you experience any of these symptoms. Eastside Eye Physicians provides high-quality eye care. Call us today at (586) 247-2020 or (586) 200-1905 for any inquiries.