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Warning-sign checks

Eye pain: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to an emergency department now if:

    • A chemical has entered your eye
    • An object has pierced the eye or is stuck in it
    • You suddenly lose vision or develop a dark curtain over your sight
    • The eye was struck by a high-speed object, such as a metal fragment

    Continue rinsing while arranging emergency help; do not delay to find a particular solution.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    For chemical exposure, immediately rinse the eye with plenty of clean, lukewarm water.

    Remove contact lenses if they come out easily.

    Seek same-day urgent care for eye pain with:

    • New blurred, reduced, or double vision
    • Severe redness or strong light sensitivity
    • Halos, severe headache, nausea, or vomiting
    • Fever, marked eyelid swelling, or pain with eye movement
    • A recent eye operation or injection
    • Contact lens use, especially with redness or light sensitivity

    Seek review sooner if discharge, redness, or dryness interferes with daily activities.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if mild pain lasts longer than a day, returns, or worsens.

The article also says

Do not drive yourself if your vision is affected.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Eye pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.