It can be hard to tell when an eye symptom is serious or not. The "wait and see" approach can work at times, but in certain situations, waiting can be detrimental to your eye health. Here are 5 eye symptoms that warrant a call or visit to Dayton Optometric Center without delay.

Visit Your Optometrist For...

1. Eye Pain

No amount of eye pain is normal in healthy eyes. There are two main types: ocular pain (on the surface, such as itching, burning, or scratchiness from trauma, infection, or foreign objects) and orbital pain (deeper within the eye, described as stabbing, throbbing, or aching). If you experience vision loss or changes along with eye pain, contact your eye doctor right away.

2. Double Vision

Diplopia, or double vision, is when you see two images of a single object. It can occur in either one or both eyes. Double vision is a symptom of several conditions, ranging in severity from needing an updated eyeglass prescription to having a stroke. That's why having your eyes checked if you're experiencing double vision is so important.

3. Sudden Floaters or Flashes

Occasional eye floaters and flashes are common and usually harmless. The problem arises when you suddenly see an increase in the number and frequency of floaters, especially when accompanied by flashes. This is usually the first symptom of retinal detachment — a sight-threatening condition that requires immediate treatment.

4. Redness and Swelling

We've all had red eyes at some point. When the redness is accompanied by swelling, pain, irritation, or discomfort, it's time for a visit to the optometrist, as this can signal an eye infection or abrasion.

5. Blurred Vision

Blurred vision can mean you need an updated lens prescription, or something more serious like cataracts or a problem with your retina. Either way, if your vision starts becoming fuzzy, don't ignore it. After a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will determine the cause and suggest how to treat it.

Emergency Eye Care and More in Kettering

When it comes to eye health, being proactive can mean the difference between healthy eyesight and permanent damage. At Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio, we provide patients with emergency eye care, routine eye exams, and much more. Call us today at (937) 228-2020!