How to Handle an Eye Emergency

Accidents happen, and when they do, our eyes are often more vulnerable than we realize. Whether it's a stray piece of debris while working in the yard, a sudden impact during a weekend soccer game, or an unexpected chemical splash while cleaning, eye emergencies can occur at any time. Knowing what to do in those critical moments can make all the difference in protecting your vision.

At Motiveyes Eye Care, we want our Overland Plano community to feel confident handling eye emergencies until they can get professional care. Here’s what you need to know about common eye emergencies and how to respond.

Foreign Objects in the Eye

If you get something small, like dust or an eyelash, in your eye, avoid rubbing it. Try blinking rapidly or rinsing your eye with clean water or saline solution. If the object is larger or doesn’t move, do not attempt to remove it yourself—this can lead to further injury. Seek emergency eye care immediately.

Chemical Exposure

Household cleaners, pool chemicals, and even beauty products can cause serious eye irritation or burns. If you get a chemical in your eye, flush it with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. Do not use eye drops or attempt to neutralize the chemical. After rinsing, call us or head to the nearest emergency care center.

Blunt Trauma (Black Eye or Impact Injury)

A direct hit to the eye from a ball, elbow, or accident can lead to bruising, swelling, or even internal damage. Applying a cold compress (not directly on the eye, but around it) can help with swelling. If you experience blurred vision, severe pain, or see floaters or flashes of light, you should get examined immediately.

Cuts or Puncture Wounds

If you suffer a serious eye injury involving a sharp object, avoid touching or pressing on the eye. Do not rinse it with water or remove any embedded object. Instead, protect the eye by covering it lightly with a clean cloth or a makeshift shield (like the bottom of a paper cup) and seek emergency care immediately.

Sudden Vision Changes or Eye Pain

If you experience sudden vision loss, flashes of light, a shadow in your vision, or intense pain, don’t ignore it. These symptoms could signal a detached retina, glaucoma attack, or another serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Protecting Your Vision Before Accidents Happen

While it’s impossible to prevent every eye emergency, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk. Wearing protective eyewear during sports, yard work, and home improvement projects can shield your eyes from impact injuries and debris. When handling chemicals, always follow safety guidelines and use appropriate eye protection. Additionally, avoiding habits like rubbing your eyes or wearing contact lenses longer than recommended can prevent irritation and infections. 

Beyond these everyday precautions, regular eye exams play a crucial role in maintaining eye health. At Motiveyes Eye Care, we don’t just check your vision—we assess your eyes for early signs of diseases and underlying conditions that could make your eyes more vulnerable to injury. By staying proactive with eye care, you can help protect your vision for years to come.

Your Vision, Our Priority

Eye emergencies can happen when you least expect them, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Taking preventive measures and staying up to date with regular eye exams can help protect your vision and catch potential issues before they become serious. If you ever find yourself facing an eye emergency, don’t wait—prompt treatment is key to preventing lasting damage.

If you need urgent eye care or need to schedule a comprehensive eye exam, contact Motiveyes Eye Care. Visit our office in Plano, Texas, or call (469) 656-8361 today.