Red Eye Emergency

What to do if you have a red eye?
Give us a call 905-666-4848 if you have any of these:
– you got chemicals in your eye
– you’re in pain or are having trouble seeing
– you’re unable to move your eye
– you’re sensitive to light
– your eye is producing a lot of mucus or pus
– you have any other symptoms of an illness, like fever or cough (you may need to seek care elsewhere, but we will help direct you)

If it’s more mild, it may be due to dryness, allergies, or a mild viral eye infection, among other things. A viral eye infection is like the common cold, you have to let it heal on its own. Here are some things you can try at home:
1. Use lubricating drops (artificial tears) 4-6 times per day
2. Don’t use red-eye reducing drops, like Visine.
3. If you wear contacts, STOP wearing them
4. Remove any eye makeup
5. Wash your hands often.
6. Avoid spreading the infection by washing your hands often, washing your towels and pillowcases often, and not sharing them.
7. If they feel itchy, you may try over-the-counter anti-allergy drops or medication
8. Try cool compresses on your closed eyes, or try placing the lubricating drops in the fridge before you instill them – the coolness can help relieve itching

If it gets worse or you develop any problems listed above, you may call the office or contact me via the online form