Eye Emergencies and Pink or Red Eyes in Santa Monica
Red, painful or suddenly blurry eyes deserve prompt attention. Our therapeutic optometrists diagnose and treat many urgent eye problems right here in the office.
What we treat
Our doctors have extensive training in urgent eye care. Common reasons patients call us include:
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis), whether viral, bacterial or allergic
- Red, irritated or light-sensitive eyes
- Corneal scratches and foreign bodies
- Styes and swollen eyelids
- Contact lens related infections and irritation
- Minor chemical exposure after first aid flushing
- New flashes, floaters, pain or sudden changes in vision
When to call us
If your eye is red, painful, sensitive to light, or your vision has changed, call (310) 394-1011 as soon as you can. Many urgent concerns can be seen quickly, and in some situations we may be able to offer a virtual consultation.
If you wear contact lenses and your eye becomes red or painful, remove your lenses and do not put them back in until you have been examined.
When to go to the emergency room
Go to the nearest emergency room for serious trauma, a penetrating injury, a chemical splash with ongoing pain after flushing, or sudden loss of vision outside our office hours.
Care beyond our walls
When a condition needs a specialist or surgeon, we coordinate the referral and stay involved in your care.
Questions, answered
Is pink eye contagious?
Viral and bacterial pink eye can spread easily, while allergic conjunctivitis does not. An exam helps determine the cause so you get the right treatment and know how to protect those around you.
Should I see an eye doctor or urgent care for a red eye?
Eye doctors have specialized instruments to examine the eye in detail, which helps us diagnose red eyes accurately. For most non-traumatic eye problems, calling us first is a good choice.
What should I do if something splashes in my eye?
Flush the eye immediately with clean water for several minutes, then call us or seek emergency care, depending on how severe the exposure is.