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Eye Emergency? Seek Help at Dean Optical in Chicago


Facing an eye emergency is never planned, and it can leave you feeling like you're in uncharted waters. But rest assured, we can help you navigate those unexpected ocular storms.

When evaluating the seriousness of an eye injury, avoid guesswork. Instead, contact us for expert advice personalized to your unique situation. Regardless of the hour, we're always on standby to assist with ocular emergencies.

couple in pain eye emergency
Home » Eye Care Services » Eye Emergencies (Pink/Red Eyes)

An eye emergency encompasses any situation that places your eyes or vision at risk of lasting harm.

The most common eye emergencies include:

  • Eye infections
  • Foreign objects lodged in the eye
  • Eye trauma
  • Scratches on the eye
  • Sudden loss of vision (in one or both eyes)
  • Misplaced contact lenses
  • Chemicals in the eye
  • Shattered eyeglass lenses
  • Unexpected flashes of light or floaters

Red Flags That Signal Eye Emergencies

Certain symptoms should immediately prompt you to seek urgent eye care:

  • Sudden loss of vision
  • Unexpected double vision
  • Acute eye pain
  • New onset of light flashes or floaters
  • Foreign objects lodged in the eye
  • Exposure to eye-irritating chemicals
  • Swelling or pain following eye surgery

Expert Care for a Range of Eye Emergencies

Our expert team of eye doctors is well-equipped to attend to a wide range of eye emergencies, offering you both effective and compassionate care, including:

elderly woman girl glasses

Immediate Care for Eye Infections


While an eye infection like conjunctivitis (pink eye) usually doesn't seem like much, especially at the beginning, it is crucial to promptly seek your eye doctor's diagnosis and treatment if you suspect an infection.

Gentle Foreign Object Removal

Foreign objects, whether an eyelash, a grain of sand, or something more substantial, demand swift removal to avoid potential harm or infection. Your eyes are precious, and attempting a DIY rescue can lead to serious complications.

Caring for Corneal Abrasions


Even the smallest scratch on the cornea, the clear, protective outer layer of your eye, can cause significant pain and irritation. It's important not to underestimate these abrasions, as they can lead to infections or more severe complications if left untreated.

If you suspect a corneal abrasion, it is crucial to contact our eye doctors promptly. They will assess the extent of the injury and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include lubricating eye drops, antibiotic ointments, or a specialized eye patch.

american man painful eyes
Doctor and patient in ophthalmology clinic

Emergency Rooms vs. Eye Doctors


Here's an important fact: an optometrist can skillfully manage most eye emergencies, eliminating the need to visit the emergency room. However, remember that you're the captain of your eye health. If you feel an emergency room visit is necessary, please do not hesitate to call them.

Navigating an Eye Emergency

For emergency eye care, contact Dean Optical in Chicago. Avoid second-guessing the urgency of your symptoms, as delaying treatment might jeopardize your vision.

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