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Emergency Eye Care in Morgantown for Swift Relief

When faced with an eye emergency, it's natural for panic to set in. However, at Morgantown Eye Associates, we urge you to remember that staying calm is your first step toward resolution. As your dedicated eye health partner, our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and is home to a team of seasoned professionals skilled at providing urgent eye care.

We deliver immediate, expert care to safeguard your vision in critical times. We understand the urgency of emergencies and guarantee our readiness to provide swift, efficient, and comprehensive care to address your needs.

Spotting an Eye Emergency: Know the Signs

Eye emergencies can manifest in various ways, but some common symptoms include

  • Sudden loss of vision
  • Severe eye pain
  • Eye redness
  • Discharge
  • Corneal abrasions
  • The presence of a foreign object in the eye

Other symptoms might include a noticeable scratchiness or the sensation that something is stuck in your eye and light sensitivity or swelling. Ignoring these symptoms or delaying care can lead to severe complications.

Vision Emergencies: A Reference Guide to Protect Your Vision

If you find yourself or someone else experiencing an eye emergency, here are some immediate steps to take:

For Pink Eye or Suspected Infections: Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen or spread the infection to others. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is essential, especially before and after applying eye medication or touching your face. Use separate towels, washcloths, and pillows to prevent spreading the infection to family members. Discarding any eye cosmetics or contact lenses you used just before or during your infection is also advisable.

If you suspect you or your child has pink eye or another eye infection, contact Morgantown Eye Associates at your earliest convenience. Early evaluation and treatment can prevent complications and speed up recovery.

For Scratched Corneas or Foreign Objects: Do not attempt to remove the object yourself, especially with tweezers or other tools, as this could cause more severe damage. Rubbing your eye is also dangerous in this situation. Instead, try blinking several times; your natural tear production may help dislodge and flush out small particles. If blinking doesn't help, you can gently pull your upper eyelid over the lower eyelid in a blinking motion to encourage tears.

If the object remains or you suspect a corneal scratch, cover the eye with a clean cloth or a protective cup to avoid additional injury and contact us immediately. Avoid putting pressure on the eye while it's covered.

For Chemical Exposures: Use a gentle stream of water for at least 15 minutes, ensuring the flow is from the inside corner of the eye outward—this technique helps prevent contaminating the unaffected eye. You can do this by holding your head under a faucet, using a clean container to pour water into your eyes, or taking a shower with your eyes open and facing downward.

After thoroughly rinsing your eyes, contact us immediately or go to the nearest emergency room for professional medical assessment and further treatment. This prompt response can be critical in preserving your vision.

Urgent Eye Care in West Virginia

Eye emergencies require immediate attention, so if you experience an eye emergency, contact us right away. We prioritize these conditions to ensure you receive the care you need.

We advise you to visit the nearest emergency room for incidents outside of our office hours.

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3000 Hampton Center, Suite A
Morgantown, WV 26505
  • 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
  • By Appointment Only
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