Is This an Eye Emergency? 9 Signs You Should Call a Doctor Immediately
Is This an Eye Emergency? 9 Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Vision is something we often take for granted—until something suddenly goes wrong.
Whether it’s a sharp pain, a strange flash of light, or an object that feels stuck, it can be difficult to know whether to wait it out or call a professional. But here’s the truth: delaying care could mean the difference between full recovery and permanent vision loss.
At Eyes in Disguise Optometry in San Francisco, we treat urgent eye conditions with precision, speed, and compassion. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 9 key signs that your eye problem is not just uncomfortable—it’s an emergency.
1. Sudden Loss of Vision
If you lose all or part of your vision suddenly—especially in one eye—don’t wait. This could indicate a retinal detachment, optic nerve inflammation, or even a stroke.
When to act: Call immediately. Every minute matters.
2. Eye Trauma or Injury
Whether it’s a flying object, sports injury, or workplace accident, trauma to the eye requires professional evaluation ASAP. Even minor impact can cause internal damage.
Do not apply pressure or attempt to self-diagnose.
3. Severe Eye Pain
Sharp, throbbing, or deep eye pain—especially if accompanied by redness or light sensitivity—may be a sign of serious issues such as uveitis, glaucoma, or corneal damage.
Mild irritation? Flush gently.
Severe pain? See a doctor.
4. Chemical Exposure
Got bleach, cleaning solution, or another chemical in your eye? Time is critical.
Immediately flush with water for 15 minutes.
Then call an emergency eye care provider.
5. Something Feels Stuck in Your Eye
Feeling like sand, glass, or metal is in your eye? Rubbing it can make it worse. Foreign objects can scratch your cornea or introduce infection.
Never attempt to remove deeply embedded material yourself.
6. Flashes of Light or Sudden Floaters
These symptoms might seem harmless, but they could signal a retinal tear or detachment.
It’s your retina warning you something’s wrong.
7. Sudden Blurry Vision
Blurry vision that comes on suddenly—especially if it’s accompanied by dizziness, headache, or pain—should never be ignored. It may point to vascular, neurological, or ocular conditions.
If it’s not your glasses, it could be your health.
8. Blood or Pus in the Eye
Any unusual discharge—especially if it’s thick, yellow/green, or bloody—can indicate infection or trauma. Combined with swelling, this is urgent.
Don’t wait. Infections can spread quickly and damage the eye permanently.
9. Double Vision (Sudden Onset)
Seeing two images where there should be one? This could stem from eye muscle paralysis, nerve damage, or even stroke.
Neurological causes must be ruled out fast.
Why Delaying Eye Care Is Risky
Waiting too long to treat eye emergencies can lead to:
Irreversible vision loss
Chronic pain or inflammation
Permanent corneal damage
Retinal detachment
Dangerous infections
If you’re asking “Should I see someone?”—the answer is yes.
Why Eyes in Disguise is Your Emergency Eye Care Partner in San Francisco
At Eyes in Disguise, we combine:
State-of-the-art technology for immediate, accurate diagnosis
Medical expertise tailored to urgent eye conditions
A calm, elegant setting where you’re treated like a person—not a number
Dr. Michelle Blas is trusted by professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs across the city for her compassionate, detail-oriented approach.
Take Action Now
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait.
Visit us at Eyes in Disguise Emergency Eye Care
Call us now: (415) 474-5321
Same-day appointments available during business hours.
FAQ: Eye Emergencies
Is pink eye an emergency?
It depends. Mild cases may resolve on their own, but if there’s swelling, discharge, or pain, call us.
How do I know if something is stuck in my eye?
A gritty or scratchy feeling, tearing, and light sensitivity are common signs. Avoid rubbing and call for evaluation.
Can blurry vision be temporary?
Yes—but if it comes on suddenly or affects one eye, seek immediate attention to rule out serious causes.
Should I go to the ER or optometrist?
For most eye-specific issues, optometrists have better tools and training. Call us first unless the injury is life-threatening.
For Emergency Appointment : https://eyesindisguise.com/emergency-eyecare
