Should you visit your eye doctor each time you face an issue? Sometimes you can manage minor eye problems from home, with or without an eye specialist's help. However, some specific symptoms or conditions require you to visit an eye doctor.
Knowing the conditions that warrant immediate attention can help you act fast and prevent vision loss or other complications. Here are instances you'll need to book an appointment with an eye care professional.
Entry of a Foreign Object
If a foreign element like dirt, grit, stones, or other large objects enter the eyes, you should see an eye specialist immediately. For tiny debris or chemicals, you might consider flushing the eyes with clean water for a few minutes to remove the foreign object or chemical content before they cause damage. You will still need a checkup once this is done.
One precaution you must remember isn't to remove foreign objects with tweezers or fingers. You also shouldn't rub the eyes because you might cause additional damage to the eyes. It's better to see an eye doctor or visit an emergency room.
An Unexpected Loss of Sight
Losing your sight abruptly can be devastating, but you should stay focused and seek medical help. Maybe you have a severe medical issue causing abrupt loss of vision like stroke or diabetes. It's also crucial to see your eye doctor when you notice sudden vision issues like double vision, blind spots, tunnel vision, blurred vision, or seeing a curtain.
Issues like these could be symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma or retinal detachment, which leads to abnormal eye pressure. Both eye conditions are emergencies, so visit your eye doctor immediately.
Burning or Itching Eyes
In most cases, itchy eyes are caused by eye allergies. Your eyes have cells responsible for releasing substances for allergic response. This causes itching and allergic symptoms. While treating mild allergies at home is possible, consider seeing your eye doctor if the reactions appear severe.
The doctor will examine the eyes, prescribe special medications and eye drops, or provide allergy shots. Sometimes itchy eyes may be a symptom of pink eye or conjunctivitis, so ensure you get proper treatment.
Eye Infection
If you notice symptoms like red, itchy, or swollen eyelids, or whites become pinkish, you will need to seek medical help. These are signs of an eye infection, so book an appointment for an exam and proper treatment. Also, you see your doctor when you start having issues like light sensitivity or eye pain.
For more information, contact optometrists near you.
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