Eye issues can be painful, scary, and inconvenient. But are they serious enough to warrant a visit to urgent care? The answer depends on the type and severity of your eye problem. In this post, we will discuss some common eye issues and when you should seek urgent care for them.
Eye Infections
Bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites cause eye infections. They can affect different parts of the eye, such as the eyelid, the conjunctiva, the cornea, or the retina. Some signs of an eye infection are:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Discharge
- Pain
- Itching
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
Some eye infections can be treated with over-the-counter eye drops or ointments. However, some eye infections can be serious and require medical attention. You should go to urgent care for an eye infection if:
- You have a fever or other symptoms of a systemic infection
- You have severe pain or vision loss
- You have a history of eye surgery or trauma
- You wear contact lenses
- You suspect you have a foreign object in your eye
Eye Allergies
Eye allergies are caused by an immune system reaction to a substance that is harmless to most people. They can be triggered by pollen, dust, pet dander, mold, cosmetics, or medications. Some signs of an eye allergy are:
- Redness
- Itching
- Watery eyes
- Puffy eyelids
- Burning sensation
Eye allergies can be treated with antihistamines, eye drops, or artificial tears. However, some eye allergies can be severe and interfere with your daily activities. You should go to urgent care for an eye allergy if:
- You have trouble breathing or swallowing
- You have hives or a rash on your face or body
- You have a history of anaphylaxis or a severe allergic reaction
- You have other medical conditions that may worsen your eye allergy
Eye Injuries
Trauma to the eye or the surrounding area causes eye injuries. They can result from accidents, sports, work, or violence. Some signs of an eye injury are:
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Cuts
- Scratches
- Foreign objects
- Chemical burns
Eye injuries can be minor or serious, depending on the extent of the damage. Some eye injuries can be treated with first aid, such as rinsing, applying pressure, or covering the eye. However, some eye injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. You should go to urgent care for an eye injury if:
- You have severe pain or vision loss
- You have a large or deep wound
- You have a chemical burn or a foreign object that cannot be removed
- You have signs of infection or inflammation
- You have a history of eye surgery or disease
Conclusion
Eye issues can range from mild to severe, and they can affect your quality of life. If you have an eye issue that is causing you discomfort or concern, you should not ignore it or self-diagnose it.
You should consult a qualified eye care professional who can examine your eye and provide the appropriate treatment. Urgent care is a convenient and affordable option for many eye issues that require prompt attention.
However, if you have a serious or life-threatening eye issue, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Remember, your eyes are precious and deserve the best care possible.