Vision Care 101: When to Seek Emergency Treatment

You never want to take a chance with your health, but when it comes to your vision, you need to be even more diligent. While the symptoms you’re experiencing may not seem like a big deal, without immediate attention, you could risk losing your vision. Whether it’s pain or flashing lights, there are times when you need immediate care. Here are four reasons to seek emergency care for your vision.

You Experience Sudden Vision Loss

Sudden vision loss is not only frightening, but it can be the sign of something serious. There are a number of vision problems that may result in sudden vision loss including retina detachment, central retinal artery occlusion, and anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. However, this can also be the sign of a medical condition. Those that suffer from a mini stroke may also experience sudden vision loss that returns. Regardless, any time this is experienced, you need emergency care.

There Is Pain In or Around Your Eyes

Pain can be a tricky area. You may think it’s something as simple as sinus pressure or even a headache. However, there are some pain signs that require immediate emergency care to protect your vision. If you experience dull, sharp, gritty, aching, or stabbing pain it may be a cause for concern. There are two types of pain when it comes to the eyes. It might be on the surface or behind the eye. The reasons for the pain can be something as simple as a migraine or something as scary as a tumor.

You See Flashing Lights or Floaters In Your Vision

Think of your retina as a flap of paper on your eye. When the retina begins to tear, it can flap around causing a flashing sensation or floaters. In some cases, the flashing and floaters may be something as simple as posterior vitreal detachment. Regardless of the cause, this is something that should not be ignored.

You Wake with an Irritated Eye After Sleeping In Your Contacts

You know you’re not supposed to sleep with your contacts in, but it happens from time to time. If you wake with an irritated eye that is red, painful, and sensitive to the light, you need to see your eye doctor immediately. These symptoms may be the signs of a corneal ulcer and if not treated within 48 hours it can become very serious.

Changes in your vision and pain in your eyes should never be ignored. Without proper and swift treatment, you risk doing permanent damage that may result in blindness. When in doubt, visit the ER immediately.

About the Author: Quinton Norrix has had his share of vision problems but now makes the best of it by collecting vintage eyewear. Don’t delay eye car if you are having trouble with your vision. The sooner they’re taken care of, the less damage your vision problems can do.