Emergency Eye Care: When to Seek Immediate Help for Eye Injuries

Emergency Eye Care: When to Seek Immediate Help for Eye Injuries

Eye emergencies can occur suddenly and require immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss. At LJ Eye Institute, Ambala, we provide 24/7 emergency eye care for injuries, infections, and sudden vision problems. This guide helps you recognize urgent eye conditions and know when to seek professional help.

Common Eye Emergencies That Need Immediate Care

1. Chemical Burns

• Caused by: Household cleaners, industrial chemicals, or accidental splashes.
• Symptoms: Severe pain, redness, burning sensation, blurred vision.
• Action: Rinse eye immediately with clean water for 15-20 minutes and rush to an eye specialist.

2. Foreign Objects in the Eye

• Examples: Metal shavings, glass particles, wood chips, or sand.
• Symptoms: Sharp pain, tearing, redness, feeling of something stuck.
• Do NOT Rub! → Seek emergency care to prevent corneal scratches.

3. Sudden Vision Loss or Blurring

• Possible Causes: Retinal detachment, stroke, optic nerve damage.
• Action: Time-sensitive! Delayed treatment can lead to permanent blindness.

4. Eye Trauma (Blunt or Sharp Injury)

• Sports injuries, accidents, or physical impact.
• Symptoms: Swelling, bleeding, double vision, or pupil shape changes.
• Risk: Internal damage even if external injury seems minor.

5. Eye Infections (Red Eye with Pain & Discharge)

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye), keratitis, or endophthalmitis.
• Warning Signs: Severe redness, pus, light sensitivity, fever.

6. Scratched Cornea (Corneal Abrasion)

• Caused by: Fingernails, contact lenses, or foreign objects.
• Symptoms: Extreme discomfort, watery eyes, light sensitivity.

7. Sudden Flashes & Floaters (Retinal Detachment Warning)

• Indicates possible retinal tear/detachment.
• Emergency Treatment Needed Within 24-48 Hours.

First Aid for Eye Emergencies (Before Reaching the Doctor)

Chemical Exposure:

• Flush with clean water (15-20 mins).
• Do not use eye drops unless prescribed.

Foreign Object:

• Do not rub – blink repeatedly to help tears flush it out.
• If stuck, cover the eye and seek help immediately.

Cut or Penetrating Injury:

• Do not remove any embedded object.
• Gently cover with a clean shield (e.g., paper cup) and go to the ER.

Sudden Vision Loss:

• Do not wait! Immediate medical intervention is critical.

Why Choose LJ Eye Institute, Ambala for Emergency Eye Care?

•  24/7 Emergency Services – Immediate care for urgent eye conditions.
• Advanced Diagnostics – Slit lamp, OCT, and ultrasound for accurate detection.
• Expert Ophthalmologists – Specialized in trauma and emergency treatments.
• On-Site Pharmacy – Quick access to essential medications.
• Fast Response Time – Minimizing risk of vision loss.

When to Visit an ER vs. an Eye Specialist?

Preventing Eye Emergencies

• Wear protective goggles during sports, welding, or chemical handling.
• Keep sharp objects & chemicals away from children.
• Handle contact lenses hygienically to avoid infections.
• Avoid rubbing eyes aggressively.