Something’s wrong. You don’t know exactly what it is, but your eye feels off. Maybe it’s a weird burning sensation. Maybe things are a little blurry, or the light suddenly feels too intense. You wait a bit. It doesn’t get better. So, do you call your eye doctor? Or do you wait another day, tell yourself it’s just dry eyes or allergies, and hope for the best?
Here’s your answer: don’t wait.
When it comes to your eyes, what seems small can spiral quickly into something serious. This guide is here to help you recognize when that uneasy feeling is actually your body sounding the alarm and when it’s time to call your optometrist for emergency eye care.
What Counts as an Eye Emergency?
Eye emergencies aren’t always dramatic. Sometimes it’s a clear accident, like getting a chemical splash while cleaning. Other times, it’s a creeping change in your vision that you can’t quite explain.
In fact, over 700 eye injuries are reported every day in Canada — more than 200 of them occur at work, according to Employment and Social Development Canada. These aren’t rare events. They’re happening in kitchens, garages, and job sites across the country.
Common eye emergencies include:
- Sudden vision loss (partial or complete)
- Flashes of light or new floaters
- Foreign object in the eye
- Blunt trauma (sports injuries, accidents)
- Chemical exposure
- Severe eye pain or pressure
- Eye infections with redness, swelling, or discharge
Any of these symptoms should prompt immediate attention. If it affects your vision, involves trauma, or feels painful and unusual, it’s worth calling your eye doctor.
The Subtle Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Your eye doesn’t have to be red or dripping to be in danger. Some of the most urgent eye conditions start with barely noticeable changes. People often brush them off or self-diagnose as something harmless.
If you’re experiencing any of the following, pause and reassess:
- A shadow or curtain over your vision
- Sudden sensitivity to light
- A gritty or scratchy feeling that doesn’t go away
- Double vision or distorted images
- The feeling of something stuck in your eye, but nothing is visible
Even if you think it’s just digital eye strain or dryness, call if the symptoms persist or worsen.
Common Missteps That Delay Care
The biggest mistake people make during an eye emergency? Assuming it’ll go away.
Here are a few things not to do:
- Do not rub your eyes—this can worsen injuries, especially if there’s a foreign object involved.
- Do not apply over-the-counter ointments unless advised by your doctor.
- Avoid using tweezers, cotton swabs, or any tool to try removing debris.
- Do not drive yourself to the emergency room if vision is impaired.
- Do not lie flat if your eye is swelling or if there is active fluid or trauma.
What you should do: keep your head elevated, rinse with sterile saline or an emergency eyewash if chemicals are involved, and seek immediate care.
First Aid for Your Eyes (While You Wait for Care)
Every home should have a few basics for eye emergencies. These won’t replace professional care, but they can help you prevent further damage while you get to your optometrist.
Have these on hand:
- Sterile saline solution or an emergency eye wash kit
- Artificial tears (preservative-free)
- Eye cup for rinsing
- Protective eyewear for high-risk activities
- A first aid kit with gauze (never apply direct pressure to the eye)
If you’ve been exposed to a chemical or have a foreign object in your eye, flush it gently with sterile saline. Don’t use tap water if you can avoid it, especially for contact lens wearers.
What Happens During an Emergency Eye Exam?
If you’ve never had one before, an emergency eye exam might sound intimidating. But the goal is simple: assess the problem quickly, prevent vision loss, and provide relief.
At St. Clair Eye Clinic, here’s what typically happens:
- A fast-tracked intake process based on your symptoms
- Diagnostic imaging or testing (e.g. retinal scan, slit lamp exam)
- Removal of foreign objects if needed
- Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory prescriptions
- If required, a referral to an ophthalmologist or ER
Our optometrists are trained in handling acute eye conditions, from infections and trauma to sudden vision changes. You’ll be seen promptly and treated with care that prioritizes both precision and comfort.
When a Minor Symptom Means Major Risk
Some of the most dangerous eye emergencies come with almost no pain at all. Retinal detachment, for instance, can begin with just a few flashes of light or an increase in floaters. Corneal ulcers might only feel like irritation at first. Inflammatory eye conditions may be masked as simple pink eye.
This is why emergency eye care isn’t about panicking. It’s about not dismissing what your eye is trying to tell you.
If something feels different, if your eye just doesn’t look right, or if you find yourself blinking harder just to bring things into focus—that’s enough of a reason to make the call.
The St. Clair Eye Clinic Difference
Located in Midtown Toronto, St. Clair Eye Clinic provides same-day emergency eye care for individuals experiencing sudden symptoms or trauma. We understand that not every emergency is dramatic, but all of them are important. Our team is ready with advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care to preserve your vision and address your symptoms fast.
Whether it’s a work-related eye injury, an unexpected chemical splash, or vision loss that came out of nowhere, we’re here. We treat both new and existing patients and accept OHIP for many emergency services.
Not Sure If It’s Urgent? Call Anyway
You don’t need to diagnose yourself. That’s our job.
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms count as an emergency, we encourage you to call St. Clair Eye Clinic. Our staff will help you determine whether you need an urgent appointment, same-day exam, or at-home care until your scheduled visit. No guessing, no gambling with your sight.
Protecting Your Eyes Long-Term
Prevention matters just as much as fast response. Use these tips to reduce your risk of future emergencies:
- Wear protective eyewear during sports or home projects
- Take regular breaks during screen time to prevent digital eye strain
- Keep your contact lenses clean and follow wearing guidelines
- Don’t ignore recurring redness or irritation
- Schedule annual eye exams to catch problems early
Final Thoughts
Eye emergencies don’t always announce themselves with drama. Often, they whisper. A flicker. A sting. A blur.
You don’t have to wait until it’s unbearable to take it seriously. The sooner you call, the more likely you are to protect your vision and avoid long-term complications.
Want More Straightforward Eye Health Advice?
Explore the St. Clair Eye Clinic Blog for expert guidance on everything from urgent eye symptoms to everyday vision care. Because when it comes to your eyes, clarity matters.