Here are some of the eye emergencies we treat:
Eye Infection
Eye infections occur when bacteria, fungi or viruses invade an area of the eye such as the cornea (the clear covering of the front of the eye), the iris (colored part of the eye) or the conjunctiva (membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelids).
Eyelid Lacerations
Cuts or punctures of the eyelids can occur from sports-related accidents, fights or other injuries. Lacerations may or may not be accompanied by other injuries such as a corneal abrasion (scratch) or foreign object stuck in the eye.
Foreign Object Stuck in the Eye
A foreign body as minor as a piece of grit or as serious as a piece of metal can get stuck or embedded in the eye. The cornea and conjunctiva are most likely to be affected by the foreign object.
Chemicals in the Eye
Chemical exposure to the eyes or eyelids can occur during a work-related accident or while cleaning or working on projects around the house. The severity of the injury depends on the specific substance and how long it was in contact with the eye.
Eye Trauma
Eye trauma can encompass anything from a scratch to a fracture of the orbit (the socket that protects the eye). Trauma can occur due to blunt force to the eye or face.
Sudden Onset of Floaters or Flashes of Light
The sudden onset of floaters or flashes of light may indicate a serious problem affecting the retina, such as a retinal tear or detachment.
Sudden Loss of Vision
Sudden total or partial vision loss is almost always serious in nature. The most common causes include eye injury or problems with the retina, macula or optic nerve.
Post-Operative Care
Post-operative check-ups are being handled on a case-by-case basis. Whenever appropriate, we can conduct these appointments over the phone or via video conferencing. If you have a post-operative visit scheduled, please contact our office before coming in. If you develop a complication after a surgical or non-surgical procedure, please call our office immediately to speak with a member of our team.
What to Do if You Experience an Eye Emergency
The best way to protect yourself or a loved one in the case of an eye emergency is to act quickly and contact an emergency eye doctor at The Eye Health Centre. We will see you as soon as possible to treat the emergency and reduce the risk of vision loss. Or, we may advise you to go to the nearest emergency room.
What Not to Do If You Experience an Eye Emergency
If you experience an eye emergency, do not do any of the following:
- “Wait it out” to see if the problem resolves on its own
- Rub or press the affected eye
- Remove any foreign objects stuck in the eye
Find an Emergency Eye Doctor Close to You
For more information about how The Eye Health Centre can help in the case of an eye emergency, please contact one of our three locations today.
Reach our Brisbane practice at (07) 3831 8606.
Reach our Ipswich practice at (07) 3282 4396.
Reach our Aspley practice at (07) 3863 1097.
Eye emergencies can happen at any time, under any circumstances. If you or a loved one is affected by an unexpected injury or accident, know that you can trust The Eye Health Centre for emergency eye care in Brisbane, Ipswich and Aspley. Our team understands how stressful eye emergencies are, and how important it is to get prompt medical attention. We are committed to treating your case with the urgency it deserves, even if the injury occurs outside of our office hours.