What to Do in Case of an Eye Emergency in Manhattan

Eye emergencies can happen suddenly and often when you least expect them. Whether it’s an injury, chemical exposure, or a sudden change in vision, knowing how to respond in the moment is essential. Acting quickly can help prevent lasting damage and preserve your sight. At Drs. Farkas, Kassalow, Resnick & Associates, we are here to provide urgent eye care and expert guidance when the unexpected occurs.
 

Common Eye Emergencies

Some of the most frequent eye emergencies we treat include:

  • Foreign objects in the eye (metal, glass, dirt, etc.)

  • Chemical burns or exposure

  • Sudden vision loss or changes

  • Eye infections or discharge

  • Blunt trauma to the eye

  • Flashes of light, floaters, or curtain-like vision loss
     

What to Do (and Not Do)

  • Do Not Rub Your Eye: Even if your eye feels irritated or something is stuck inside, avoid rubbing it. This can worsen the injury or cause more damage.

  • Rinse with Clean Water: If a chemical has splashed into your eye, rinse it immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek emergency care right away.

  • Avoid Attempting to Remove Embedded Objects: If something is stuck in the eye, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. Cover the eye lightly to prevent movement and get to our eye doctor immediately.

  • Apply a Cold Compress for Blunt Trauma: If you’ve sustained a blow to the eye, applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling. Avoid putting pressure directly on the eye.

  • Contact Our Office: Our eye doctor in Manhattan is equipped to handle many types of urgent eye issues.
     

When to Seek Immediate Help

You should never delay care if you notice:

  • Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes

  • Severe pain or discomfort

  • Unusual pupil size or shape

  • Uncontrolled bleeding or discharge

  • Sensitivity to light or seeing halos
     

Prompt treatment can help prevent permanent damage or vision loss.
 

Why You Need to See an Optometrist

When you experience an eye issue, it is important to see an optometrist rather than visiting urgent care. Most urgent care centers are not equipped with the specific tools or training needed to properly diagnose and treat eye conditions. In many cases, they will simply refer you to an eye doctor, which wastes valuable time and adds unnecessary costs. Our optometrist in Manhattan is fully equipped to evaluate and manage a wide range of eye conditions, from infections and injuries to sudden changes in vision. By coming directly to us, you will receive prompt and accurate care from a provider who focuses on eye health.
 

Count on Our Eye Doctor in Manhattan

At Drs. Farkas, Kassalow, Resnick & Associates, we understand that eye emergencies can be frightening and unpredictable. Our experienced team is here to provide fast, thorough, and compassionate care when you need it most.
 

If you’re experiencing an eye emergency, call our office immediately. We’ll provide eye care you need as quickly as possible. Contact our office in Manhattan, by calling (212) 355-5145 for further guidance or to book an appointment today.

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