When to Call an Eye Doctor: Recognizing Early Signs of Eye Emergencies

Your eyes are delicate, complex organs, and certain symptoms should never be ignored. While some eye issues can wait for a routine exam, others may signal an eye emergency that requires immediate attention. Knowing when to call an eye doctor can make a critical difference in protecting your vision and preventing long-term damage.

What Is Considered an Eye Emergency?

An eye emergency is any sudden change or symptom that threatens your vision or eye health. These situations often come on quickly and may worsen without prompt care. If you experience sudden pain, vision loss, or trauma to the eye, it’s important to contact an eye doctor right away rather than waiting to see if symptoms improve.

Sudden Vision Changes

One of the most serious warning signs is a sudden change in vision. This can include:

• Blurred or distorted vision that appears abruptly

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes

• Dark spots, shadows, or a “curtain” moving across your field of view

These symptoms may indicate conditions such as retinal detachment, vascular issues, or optic nerve problems. Immediate evaluation is essential to preserve vision.

Eye Pain or Severe Discomfort

Persistent or intense eye pain is never normal. While mild irritation can come from dryness or allergies, severe pain may be linked to infections, inflammation, glaucoma, or injury. Pain accompanied by redness, headache, nausea, or light sensitivity should be treated as urgent.

Flashes of Light or New Floaters

Occasional floaters are common, especially as we age. However, a sudden increase in floaters or seeing flashes of light may signal a retinal tear or detachment. These symptoms often appear without warning and require prompt attention to avoid permanent vision loss.

Redness With Additional Symptoms

Red eyes alone are not always an emergency, but redness paired with other symptoms can be concerning. Call an eye doctor if redness is accompanied by:

• Eye pain or pressure

• Sensitivity to light

• Discharge or swelling

• Decreased vision

These signs may point to infections, uveitis, or other inflammatory conditions that need immediate treatment.

Eye Injuries or Trauma

Any injury to the eye should be evaluated as soon as possible, even if it seems minor. This includes:

• Being hit in the eye during sports or an accident

• Chemical exposure or splashes

• Foreign objects lodged in the eye

Do not rub your eye or attempt to remove embedded objects. Seek professional care right away.

Signs of Infection

Eye infections can progress quickly if left untreated. Warning signs include redness, swelling, discharge, pain, and blurred vision. If symptoms worsen rapidly or do not improve within a day, it’s time to call your eye doctor.

Get Prompt Care at 20/20 Optometric of Fresno

Your vision is too important to take chances with. Sudden changes, pain, flashes, injuries, or signs of infection should never be ignored. Recognizing the early signs of an eye emergency and acting quickly can help protect your eyesight and overall eye health.

If you’re experiencing concerning eye symptoms, contact 20/20 Optometric of Fresno for urgent eye care. Our team is here to evaluate your symptoms, provide timely care, and help safeguard your vision. Visit our office in Fresno, California, or call (559) 221-8900 for further guidance.