Emergency Eye Care: What to Do in Case of an Injury

Accidents happen when we least expect them—whether it’s a chemical splash in the kitchen, a sports-related incident, or something as simple as rubbing your eyes with dirty hands. Your eyes are delicate and essential, and knowing how to respond in an emergency can make a critical difference in preventing long-term damage.

At Mission Creek Optometry, we want to ensure you have the knowledge to protect your vision in any situation. Here’s what you need to know about eye injuries and how to respond quickly and effectively.

Types of Eye Injuries and How to Respond

-Foreign Objects in the Eye

If something like dust, sand, or an eyelash gets into your eye:

• Do not rub your eyes. This can cause scratches on the cornea.
  

• Rinse with clean water or saline solution to flush out the debris.
  

• If the object doesn’t come out or if discomfort persists, seek medical attention immediately.
  
  

Note: If a sharp object is embedded in the eye, do not attempt to remove it. Cover the eye loosely and go to an emergency room or optometrist immediately.

-Chemical Burns

Chemical exposure is a true ocular emergency.

• Immediately flush the eye with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.
  

• Remove any contact lenses during flushing.
  

• Do not use any other solutions or eye drops unless directed by a healthcare professional.
  

• After flushing, go to the nearest emergency room or call your eye doctor.
  
  

-Blunt Trauma (Black Eye or Impact)

Getting hit in the eye by a ball, elbow, or other object can cause internal damage.

• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
  

• Avoid pressure on the eye.
  

• Monitor for signs like vision changes, flashes of light, or severe pain—these may indicate more serious issues like retinal detachment.
  

• Schedule an eye exam promptly, even if symptoms seem mild.
  
  

-Cuts or Punctures

If the eye or surrounding area is cut:

• Do not apply pressure to the eye.
  

• Avoid rinsing if the eyeball is punctured.
  

• Cover the eye gently with a clean, rigid shield (like the bottom of a paper cup) and seek emergency care immediately.
  
  

When to See an Optometrist or Go to the ER

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Sudden vision loss or changes
  

• Persistent pain or redness
  

• Light sensitivity
  

• Blood in the eye
  

• Uneven pupil size
  

• A feeling that something is stuck and can’t be removed
  
  

Prevention Tips

While emergencies can’t always be avoided, these tips help reduce the risk:

• Wear protective eyewear during sports or hazardous work.
  

• Use caution when handling chemicals.
  

• Keep children’s toys age-appropriate and safe.
  

• Never underestimate even minor eye irritation—when in doubt, get it checked out.
  
  

We're Here for Your Eye Emergencies

At Mission Creek Optometry, we provide urgent care for eye injuries and emergencies. If you or a loved one has suffered an eye injury, don’t wait—contact us immediately. Quick action can preserve your sight and prevent long-term complications.

Your vision is our priority—every moment matters.