If you have small particles in your eye, like dust or sand, your eyes may feel gritty and irritated. Generally, these types of objects can be rinsed or flushed out of the eye with fresh, clean water. Don’t rub your eyes — this can damage your eye further. Blink several times to try to flush the particle out with your natural tears.
If there is something larger embedded in your eye, it can threaten your vision and overall eye health. If this happens to you, don’t touch your eye and try not to move your eye. See your optometrist or head to your nearest emergency room as soon as possible.
If you’ve gotten hit in the face, ensure that you seek treatment as soon as possible. Certain complications, such as retinal detachment, may only be apparent to an eye care professional.
In the case of trauma, apply a cold compress to the affected area but do not apply pressure. If a black eye, vision loss, double vision, or severe pain occurs, visit your optometrist or emergency room as soon as possible.
If you’ve come into contact with chemicals and they’ve gotten into or around your eye, immediately flush your eye with cool, clean water. Running your eye under the faucet or standing in the shower for 15 minutes is important, but ensure you seek medical attention as soon as possible as well.
Chemicals are capable of damaging your vision permanently, so stay aware of what you are using and how they can affect you.
We urge you to contact us as soon as you can if you are experiencing an eye emergency. However, if we are unavailable, please call 911.
