Prompt, professional eye care in Maple Ridge
Eye emergencies can be sudden and frightening. Whether it’s a painful injury, a sudden loss of vision, or any other urgent eye issue, our team at Pacific Eye Doctors is here to provide immediate, professional eye care in Maple Ridge to protect your vision and prevent further complications.
Navigating Urgent Eye Care
Common Eye Emergencies
Knowing when to seek emergency eye care in Maple Ridge can make all the difference in preserving your sight.
Common situations that require urgent attention include:
- Eye injuries – Trauma from accidents, falls, or foreign objects can cause severe damage. Watch for pain, swelling, bleeding, or a change in the eye’s appearance.
- Sudden vision loss – Any rapid decrease in vision, whether partial or complete, should be addressed immediately, as it could indicate a serious condition.
- Flashes and floaters – Sudden flashes of light or an increase in floaters (specks or cobweb-like shapes) could signal retinal detachment or tear.
- Chemical exposure – If your eyes come into contact with harmful chemicals, flush them with water immediately and seek professional care.
- Severe eye pain or redness – Especially when accompanied by nausea or vomiting, these symptoms could indicate acute glaucoma or a serious infection.
We have Emergency Hours Every Day—Just Call
What to Do in an Eye Emergency
If you have an eye emergency, phone 604-409-4947 immediately. Describe your symptoms to our staff, and we’ll guide you on next steps. In severe cases, you may need to go directly to the nearest emergency room.
What Not to Do if you are Having an Eye Emergency
Knowing what not to do can be as important as knowing what to do. To protect your vision, avoid the following:
- Don’t Rub Your Eyes: Rubbing your eyes, especially after an injury or chemical exposure, can cause further damage. This is particularly true if a foreign object in the eye could scratch the cornea or become embedded.
- Don’t Apply Pressure: Avoid putting pressure on your eye, which can worsen injuries or exacerbate symptoms. Handling it with care is essential, even if the eye feels swollen or painful.
- Don’t Attempt to Remove Foreign Objects: If something is stuck in your eye, do not try to remove it yourself. This can lead to further injury. Instead, seek professional help immediately.
- Don’t Use Medications or Drops Without Guidance: Avoid using any eye drops, ointments, or medications unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional. Some substances can worsen the condition or delay proper treatment.
- Don’t Delay Seeking Professional Help: Time is critical in an eye emergency. Waiting too long to seek care can result in permanent damage or loss of vision. Always err on the side of caution and contact Pacific Eye Doctors or visit the nearest emergency room if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Emergencies
Protect Your Vision
Don’t hesitate to seek help if you experience an eye emergency. Quick action can make all the difference in preserving your sight and preventing further damage. If you’re experiencing an eye emergency, please immediately call Pacific Eye Doctors. Our team is ready to assist you with the prompt and professional care you need to protect your vision.