At Van Eeden & Le Roux, our optometrists are available to assist with minor eye emergencies, such as the removal of a foreign body or the treatment of eye infections.
Foreign body in the eye
Our eyes are incredibly sensitive, so when a foreign body, like an eyelash or a grain of sand, finds its way into the eye, it can cause irritation and pain. However, most of the time, you can remove the foreign body safely at home.
Here are a few steps you can try before scheduling an emergency appointment:
Wash your hands with soap and water
Locate the object by looking in a mirror
Squeeze your eyelids shut and blink to produce tears which will flush the object out. Do not rub your eyes, as it can make the problem worse.
If the object is behind the upper eyelid: pull your upper lid gently over your lower eyelid, then look upward to push the object off from the upper lid.
Use sterile saline to flush the object out by squirting saline solution into your affected eye with your lids open.
In the case of metal or organic (e.g. plant material) foreign bodies, do not attempt to remove these yourself and seek medical attention immediately.
If you are unable to remove the foreign object or are experiencing the symptoms below, contact us immediately for an emergency appointment to prevent putting your vision at risk.
Eye Infections
Eye infections may be due to numerous causes, ranging from bacteria to viruses. People who wear contact lenses are more susceptible to eye infections. If you suspect that you may have an eye infection, remove your contacts until you are able to visit us for your emergency examination.
Signs of a possible eye infection:
Discharge that is green, yellow, or bloody
Red eyes or eyelids
Feeling that something is stuck in your eye
Eye pain
A white or grey sore on your cornea (front part of eye)
Increased sensitivity to light
Sudden blurry vision
While we will always do our best to accommodate most eye emergencies, our optometry practice is not equipped to deal with eye trauma. Please seek urgent medical care if you have a major eye emergency.
