Some eye problems can wait for a routine appointment, while others require immediate evaluation. Delaying treatment for certain conditions may increase the risk of permanent vision loss or complications.

You should seek urgent eye care if you experience:

• Sudden vision changes or vision loss
• Severe eye pain
• Eye redness accompanied by pain or light sensitivity
• Flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters
• A curtain-like shadow or loss of part of your vision
• Eye injuries or trauma
• A foreign object stuck in the eye
• Chemical exposure to the eye
• Sudden double vision
• Severe swelling around the eye
• Contact lens-related discomfort or complications

If you are unsure whether your symptoms require immediate attention, it is always better to have your eyes checked as well as for the peace of mind.