Emergency Eye Care at Washington Eye Institute
After-Hours Emergency Vision Care in Maryland
Eye emergencies can happen at any time. That’s why we offer existing patients after-hours emergency eye care facilitated by an on-call eye doctor. They can give you guidance and immediate care to handle the emergency effectively.
New patients are welcome to book emergency visits during normal business hours.
Remember, prompt action can make a significant difference in the outcome of your vision. Call Washington Eye Institute for all your emergency vision needs.
Recognizing the Signs of an Eye Emergency
Understanding the signs and symptoms of an eye emergency is crucial for seeking timely care. Here are some common indicators:
- Sudden vision loss
- Sudden vision changes
- Severe or persistent eye pain
- Eye trauma, including scratches, penetration, or impact
- Light sensitivity
- Redness or swelling
- A sudden increase in flashes or floaters
- Any chemical contact with the eye
- A foreign object in the eye
- Bleeding in or around the eye
- A painful red bump (stye)
- Discharge from the eye
What to Do in an Eye Emergency
When faced with an eye emergency, taking the right steps can significantly impact the outcome and potentially save your vision. Here's what to do:
- Stay Calm: Remaining calm helps you think clearly and act appropriately.
- Do Not Rub or Touch the Eye: If something is in your eye or it's injured, resist the urge to rub or touch it.
- Rinse with Water in Case of Chemical Exposure: If chemicals enter your eye, rinse it with clean water for at least 15 minutes.
- Shield the Eye: Cover the eye with a protective shield or gauze pad if there's trauma. Do not apply pressure or try to remove any objects stuck in the eye.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Contact Washington Eye Institute or visit the nearest emergency room.
