Your eyes are incredibly delicate, and even minor injuries can quickly become serious without proper care. From everyday accidents at home to sports-related impacts and workplace hazards, eye injuries can happen when you least expect them. Knowing when to seek emergency eye care in Laguna Niguel can help protect your vision and prevent long-term damage.

Scratches to the Eye (Corneal Abrasions)

One of the most common eye injuries is a scratch to the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. Corneal abrasions often occur from:

• Rubbing the eye when debris is present

• Contact with fingernails or makeup brushes

• Improper contact lens use

Symptoms may include sharp pain, redness, tearing, sensitivity to light, and the feeling that something is stuck in the eye. Even small scratches should be evaluated promptly, as untreated abrasions can lead to infection.

Foreign Objects in the Eye

Dust, sand, metal shavings, wood particles, and other debris can easily enter the eye, especially during outdoor activities, construction work, or home projects. While some particles may rinse out naturally, others can become embedded and cause irritation or injury.

If flushing the eye with clean water doesn’t remove the object - or if pain, redness, or vision changes persist - professional eye care is essential to prevent further damage.

Chemical Eye Injuries

Chemical exposure is a true eye emergency. Household cleaners, industrial chemicals, pool chemicals, and even certain cosmetics can cause chemical burns to the eye.

Symptoms may include:

• Severe pain or burning

• Redness and swelling

• Blurred vision

• Excessive tearing

Immediate rinsing with water is critical, followed by urgent evaluation by an eye care professional. Quick treatment can significantly reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.

Blunt Eye Trauma

Blunt trauma occurs when the eye is hit by an object such as a ball, elbow, airbag, or fall-related impact. While there may be no visible cut, internal eye damage can still occur.

Signs of blunt eye trauma include:

• Eye pain or pressure

• Bruising around the eye

• Blurred or double vision

• Light sensitivity

These injuries should never be ignored, as they can affect internal eye structures and lead to lasting vision problems.

When to Seek Emergency Eye Care in Laguna Niguel

You should seek emergency eye care right away if you experience:

• Sudden vision loss or changes

• Severe eye pain

• Chemical exposure

• Penetrating injuries or deep cuts

• Persistent redness, swelling, or discharge after an injury

Delaying treatment can worsen the injury and increase the risk of long-term vision complications.

Expert Care When Your Eyes Need It Most

Eye injuries can range from minor irritations to serious emergencies that threaten your vision. Understanding the most common types of eye injuries and acting quickly when they occur can make a critical difference in outcomes.

If you or a loved one experiences an eye injury, contact Today’s Vision right away to protect your vision and get the care you need when it matters most. Visit our office in Laguna Niguel, California, or call (949) 518-0055 today.