People will put off seeing health care professionals for a number of reasons. However, thinking that issues will just go away on their own is not very wise. Optical issues can be very serious, and can also point to a number of underlying health problems. Here are five examples of optical emergencies that require an immediate appointment with your Ottawa optometrist:
Chemicals
Do not under estimate the dangers of cleaning products and disinfectants causing substantial damage to your eye. When you get any type of chemical in your eye at work or at home you must flush it with cold water either in the shower or just at the sink. If you’re wearing contact lenses do not attempt to remove them until you have flushed out your eye first. You should then contact your Ottawa optometrist as soon as possible.
Small Foreign Object
Even a particle of sand or dirt can cause irritation and damage to your eye. Do not rub your eye. Instead, first wash your hands and try to see if you can spot the object in the mirror or have someone else take a look. You can try to flush the object out with cold water. If you continue to feel like something is in your eye avoid rubbing it and call your Ottawa optometrist.
Large Foreign Object
If a large foreign object of any kind is stuck in your eye do not remove it. Proceed directly to the emergency department.
Cuts and Scratches
If you have been hit in the eye or were brushed across the eye by an object this can result in a cut or scratch. If you know this has occurred proceed to the emergency room and do not place place pressure on your eye. You can also sustain a cut or scratch to your eye and not even realize it. If you feel discomfort or pain in your eye or are experiencing vision issues contact your Ottawa optometrist and request an emergency appointment.
Black Eye
If you have a black eye you may experience pain as well as severe swelling. You can request a visit with your Ottawa optometrist just to make sure your eye itself was not damaged.
You should also contact your Ottawa optometrist if you experience blurred or double vision, discharge or severe tearing, flashes of light, pain in your eye, a wandering eye or impaired vision.