Emergency Eye Examinations
At Bayview Vision we offer Emergency Eye Exams! Emergency eye exams are conducted to address urgent eye-related concerns that require immediate attention. These exams are typically scheduled outside of regular appointments to promptly diagnose and treat acute eye conditions. Some common reasons for emergency eye exams include:
Eye Injuries: If you experience a sudden eye injury, such as a foreign object entering the eye, chemical exposure, or trauma, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial to assess the extent of the injury and prevent further damage.
Severe Eye Pain: Intense, persistent eye pain could indicate various conditions, such as corneal ulcers, acute glaucoma, or uveitis. Prompt evaluation is necessary to identify the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Sudden Loss of Vision: The sudden loss of vision, whether partial or complete, may be a sign of a serious underlying condition, including retinal detachment or vascular occlusion. Urgent assessment is necessary to minimize potential vision loss.
Acute Onset of Eye Redness: Sudden and severe redness in the eye may be caused by conditions like acute conjunctivitis, iritis, or keratitis. Immediate examination can help identify the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
New-Onset Flashes and Floaters: Flashes of light and floaters are discussed in more detail below. If you notice these symptoms suddenly or in a more pronounced manner, it is important to have your eyes examined to rule out any serious issues.
Let’s talk about Flashes and Floaters! Flashes and floaters are visual symptoms that can occur due to changes in the gel-like substance called the vitreous inside the eye. While they are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate more severe conditions. Here's an overview:
Floaters: Floaters are tiny specks or cobweb-like shapes that seem to float across your visual field. They are actually shadows cast on the retina by small clumps or strands of gel-like vitreous. Floaters become more noticeable when they enter the line of sight and can move with eye movements. In most cases, floaters are benign. However, sudden increases in floaters or the presence of a large number of floaters accompanied by other symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, requiring immediate attention.
Flashes of Light: Flashes of light are brief, flickering sensations of light that can appear as sparks, arcs, or lightning-like streaks in your peripheral vision. They often occur when the vitreous tugs or pulls on the retina. While some flashes of light are benign, if you experience new-onset or frequent flashes, it may be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment. Prompt evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and take appropriate action.
If you experience sudden-onset or worsening flashes and floaters, it is recommended to seek an emergency eye exam. An eye care professional will conduct a thorough examination, including a dilated eye evaluation, to assess the health of your retina and determine if any immediate intervention is needed.
Remember, this information serves as a general guide, and it's crucial to consult an eye care professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of your specific eye condition.