WHEN EMERGENCIES HAPPEN, WE’RE HERE TO HELP
Although we hope that you’ll never have to call us because of an emergency, if you do have to, we will do everything we can to treat you quickly and efficiently while providing you with excellent customer service.
WHEN TO CALL US
We understand that experiencing an eye emergency is frightening, especially if there is pain involved, and you are likely most comfortable seeing your optometrist for treatment. However, if we are not available, or you need immediate attention, you need to call 911 as soon as possible.
We can help with several eye emergencies that require professional guidance. The best way to prevent an emergency is to be aware of your surroundings, wear appropriate safety gear, and always maintain a safe distance from harmful objects.
HARMFUL CHEMICALS
If you work near harmful chemicals or are using them around the house, there is always a chance you may make accidental contact. If you get caustic chemicals in your eye, rinse your eye as soon as possible with clean, cool water for at least 15 minutes, and please give us a call.
We will always do our best to see you immediately, but in the case we cannot, please call 911.
TRAUMA
If you’ve sustained a minor or moderate injury of some sort to the head or face, please contact us as soon as possible to have your eye health evaluated. If you are bleeding profusely or are in severe pain, please call 911.
SUDDEN INFECTION
Some viruses act quickly and require immediate medical attention. We’ll be able to help you by prescribing an appropriate medication and providing treatment. Give us a call as soon as possible, and we will do everything we can to fit you in for an emergency appointment.
WHEN TO GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM
It is essential to know that if you need immediate attention, are in severe pain, are bleeding profusely, or have something lodged in your eye, you should go to the emergency room or call 911.
HELPFUL TIPS IN THE CASE OF EMERGENCY
If you have something in your eye, you should rinse it as soon as possible. Rinse your eye with cool, clean water or contact solution (if you have it) for at least 15 minutes. Make sure you rinse for the full 15 minutes, even if your eye begins to feel better before the full time has elapsed. This helps ensure that any residual chemicals or debris is flushed away.
Stand in an area that you’re okay with possibly getting wet (like a tub or shower), tilt your head back, hold open your eye, and slowly pour the water or solution into your eye, blinking often. Alternately, if you have access to an eyewash station, you should use that instead and follow its instructions carefully.
When you have finished rinsing your eye, please give us a call. If our office is closed, please proceed to your nearest drop-in clinic or emergency room.