Ocular Emergencies

At Doctors For Visual Freedom, we pride ourselves on making time to see emergency patients promptly.  In most cases, this means the same day. Some patients need even more to be seen more promptly than our office can accommodate.  If unable to contact our office please go to the nearest emergency room. 

Need care immediately

Sudden loss of vision: A central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a loss of blood flow (stroke) to the eye.  Treatment here is best within the first six hours and the earlier that this is treated, the better. 

Chemical burns to the eye: First irrigation of the eye with large amounts of water is important.  If visiting the ER, make sure that you receive follow up with an ophthalmologist as some chemicals can have effects on the eye long after the initial injury.

Open globe: When hit in the eye so hard that the eye ball itself is broken is an immediate emergency.  Do not put a patch on the eye and take care not to touch the eye.  If possible try to put a paper cup over the eye to protect it from pressure.  It is important to go directly to the emergency room of a hospital with eye coverage. 

Corneal ulcers: If you have pain in your eye and wear contact lenses, you should be aware that corneal infections (corneal ulcers) can lead to loss of the eye in as little as 24 hours.  If you see a white spot on the surface of the eye, this should be considered a corneal ulcer.  We believe that anyone with pain associated with contact lens wear should be seen the same day.

Flashes of light or new onset floaters can be a sign of a retinal hole or detachment. The retina is the surface inside of the eye that transmits light images to the brain.  A retinal detachment is similar to wallpaper peeling off of a wall. Flashed and floaters may, though, be a sign of a normal aging process called a posterior vitreous detachment. It is always best to have a full examination to be able to determine whether the situation is normal or could lead to something much more serious.  Until seen, it is best to lie down and restrict activities.