Eye symptoms demanding immediate attention

Eyes are our organs of sight. The eye is a complex structure that receives and translates light into impulses that our brain recognizes as images. Vision provides much of our daily sensory input. It is important for us to be aware of symptoms that indicate a potential threat to our vision.

Eye symptoms demanding medical attention include:

• complete or partial loss of vision (one or both eyes)
• new onset of pain, sensitivity to light or floaters
• halos around light
• a pupil that has developed an irregular shape
• redness or excessive tearing
• severe itching and burning
• appearance of thick greenish or white discharge from the eye
• blurred vision that lasts more then a few minutes and
• injury to an eye

Many medical problems can cause loss of sight. Eye disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, or a detached retina may lead to eventual blindness. Illnesses such as diabetes or hypertension can also contribute to a decrease in vision. Some visual changes may be caused by a problem in the brain. Others may be related to medication toxicity or nerve or muscle diseases.

In the event of an eye injury, prompt and accurate eye care can prevent a loss of sight. Although first aid is helpful, it is difficult for a non-professional to know the extent of damage to the eye. Medical care must be obtained quickly. Give first aid then seek medical care for eye injuries.

When an eye or eyelid is cut, bandage the eye lightly and seek medical care right away. Do not try to wash out the eye or remove any objects stuck in the eye. Do not rub or apply pressure to the injured eye or lid.

Treat a blow to the eye immediately with an ice compress for no more than 20 minutes at a time, 4 to 8 times a day. This reduces pain and swelling. Black eyes or blurred vision may indicate damage to the contents of the eye.

If the eyes come in contact with chemicals, begin first aid immediately. Chemicals in the eyes can cause severe pain. Start first aid measures quickly to minimize the risk of permanent injury or loss of sight. Emergency treatment for chemical burns in the eyes includes:

• rinse the eyes immediately with gently flowing water for at least 20 minutes (Rinse right over contact lenses, do not remove them. Hold the victim's head under the faucet or pour cool to lukewarm water into the eye.)
• after a few minutes, begin to rinse the unaffected eye, because the rinsing process could wash some of the chemical into the unaffected eye
• consider standing in a shower while rinsing the eyes, especially with children (Do not take time to remove any clothes.)
• be firm with children and rinse for at least 20 minutes before doing anything else (It can be very difficult to rinse the eyes of a small child, because the child will struggle violently.)
• after 20 minutes of rinsing, call the Poison Control Center for advice (Know the name of the chemical so you can report exactly what was splashed into the eye. An eye exam by an emergency physician or ophthalmologist will often be recommended.)

Eye symptoms vary from a slow, gradual onset to a sudden problem. Seek medical care for any change in the condition of your eyes or sight. Proper evaluation and treatment are crucial to healing and preventing blindness.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File EYES4513.RF2 VRS# 4513 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1998, 2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.