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5 Eye Emergencies You Should Never Ignore



Your eyes are delicate and complex organs that require immediate attention when something goes wrong. While it might seem convenient to rush to urgent care for a sudden eye issue, most non-specialist providers will end up referring you to an optometrist for proper evaluation and treatment. This not only wastes time but could also delay care in situations where every moment matters.
 

At Vision Center South in Marianna, FL, we understand how critical it is to treat eye emergencies quickly and accurately. Here are five eye emergencies you should never ignore and why seeing an optometrist first can make all the difference.
 

1. Eye Infections


Common infections like pink eye (conjunctivitis) can sometimes escalate into more serious issues, especially if caused by bacteria or viruses that affect deeper layers of the eye. Symptoms may include discharge, swelling, pain, redness, and light sensitivity. Left untreated, eye infections can lead to corneal damage and scarring.
 

Over-the-counter drops or home remedies may provide temporary relief but are not effective against all infections. Accurate diagnosis is key. Our optometrist can determine whether your infection is bacterial, viral, or fungal, and prescribe the correct treatment to stop the infection and protect your vision.
 

2. Flashes, Floaters, or a Curtain Over Vision


While floaters are common with aging, a sudden increase in their number (especially when paired with flashes of light or a dark curtain over part of your vision) may indicate a retinal tear or detachment. Left untreated, retinal detachments can lead to permanent blindness in the affected eye.
 

Optometrists are trained to perform specialized imaging and dilated eye exams to detect these issues early. Unlike urgent care clinics, we can assess the full health of your retina and refer you to a retinal specialist for same-day treatment if necessary.
 

3. Foreign Object in the Eye


If something becomes lodged in your eye such as metal shavings, wood splinters, glass fragments, or even stubborn debris, it should be treated as a medical emergency. Attempting to remove the object yourself can worsen the injury, increasing the risk of corneal abrasions, infection, or deeper damage.
 

We use advanced tools and techniques to safely remove foreign bodies and apply treatments to reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote healing. Unlike urgent care providers, we have the magnification and sterile instruments needed for precise and effective care.
 

4. Eye Trauma or Injury


Trauma to the eye, whether from blunt force, sharp objects, or chemical exposure, can cause a range of complications - from internal bleeding and retinal damage to elevated eye pressure and optic nerve damage. Even if the eye looks fine externally, there may be hidden damage that requires immediate intervention.
 

Chemical injuries, in particular, can deteriorate eye tissue rapidly. Immediate rinsing and professional evaluation are essential. Our optometrist can assess the full extent of the trauma and provide both acute treatment and follow-up care to ensure full recovery.
 

5. Sudden Onset of Eye Pain or Redness


Severe eye pain and redness (especially when accompanied by light sensitivity, blurred vision, or nausea) could point to acute angle-closure glaucoma, corneal ulcers, or keratitis. These conditions can escalate quickly, sometimes within hours, and may cause permanent vision loss if left untreated.
 

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent lasting damage. We can check your eye pressure, assess the cornea and anterior chamber, and initiate appropriate therapy immediately.
 

Urgent Eye Care Your Can Trust


Eye emergencies require specialized care. Urgent care clinics often lack the equipment, experience, and training to properly diagnose and treat vision-threatening conditions. Choosing to see an optometrist right away eliminates unnecessary delays and ensures you get expert care when you need it most.
 

If you’re facing an eye emergency, contact Vision Center South in Marianna, Florida. Schedule online or call (850) 482-2336 for further guidance.

Roya1234 none 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm Closed Closed optometrist # # # # https://meetmarlo.com/shop/00u4bju7jaRbsJ0X6297 https://denney.myclstore.com/ https://denney.myclstore.com/ https://denney.myclstore.com/ 121 St. Joseph Ave. Brewton, AL 36426 2518673635 607 Boll Weevil Cir #C Enterprise, AL 36330 3343476599 4340 Lafayette Street Marianna, FL 32446 8504822336 2826 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 102 Dothan, AL 36301 3347932633