Chemical exposure the most common symptoms are pain or burning. The eye may become red, and the eyelids may become swollen.

Subconjunctival hemorrhage (bleeding) generally, this condition is painless. Vision is not affected. The eye will have a red spot of blood on the sclera (the white part of the eye). This occurs when there is a rupture of a small blood vessel on the surface of the eye. The area of redness may be fairly large, and its appearance is sometimes alarming. It is not dangerous and generally goes away slowly with no treatment.

Corneal abrasions symptoms include pain, a sensation that something is in the eye, tearing, and sensitivity to light. Iritis pain and light sensitivity are common. The pain may be described as a deep ache. Sometimes, excessive tearing is seen. Hyphema pain and blurred vision are the main symptoms.

Orbital blowout fracture symptoms include pain, especially with movement of the eyes; double vision that disappears when one eye is covered; and eyelid swelling after nose blowing. Swelling around the eye and bruising often occur. Conjunctival lacerations symptoms include pain, redness, and a sensation that something is in the eye. Lacerations to the cornea and the sclera symptoms include decreased vision and pain.

Corneal a sensation that something is in the eye, tearing, blurred vision, and light sensitivity are all common symptoms. Sometimes, the foreign body can be seen on the cornea. If the foreign body is metal, a rust ring or stain can occur.

Intraorbital symptoms, such as decreased vision, pain, and double vision, usually develop hours to days after the injury. Sometimes, no symptoms develop. Intraocular you may have eye pain and decreased vision, but, initially, you may have no symptoms. Ultraviolet keratitis symptoms include pain, light sensitivity, redness, and a feeling that something is in the eye.

Solar retinopathy decreased vision is the primary symptom. In most cases, if you have continuing symptoms of pain, visual disturbance, or bleeding, you should go to an ophthalmologist (a medical doctor who specializes in eye care and surgery). In general, if you are not sure if you have a serious eye injury, call your ophthalmologist for advice. Calling your ophthalmologist may be helpful in the following circumstances.

Chemical exposures if you are not sure if the exposure is potentially serious, you have washed out your eye, and you have few symptoms, then your ophthalmologist may be able to help you decide whether or not you should be seen immediately. Subconjunctival hemorrhage if you are not sure that you have this condition, your ophthalmologist may be able to help with the diagnosis. This condition does not require immediate medical attention.

Continuing pain and decreased vision after an eye injury can be warning signs that require prompt medical attention. If you have an ophthalmologist, he or she may be able to take care of you in the office. Otherwise, go to a hospital's emergency department. The following conditions should be seen promptly by an ophthalmologist or in the emergency department.

Chemical exposures if the substance was known to be caustic, immediate medical evaluation by either an ophthalmologist or in the emergency department is needed, regardless of symptoms. Acids and alkalis are the worst and require immediate attention.

If the substance is not dangerous, such as soap or suntan lotion, a visit to the emergency department is not necessary, but a visit to the ophthalmologist's office may be helpful to alleviate any remaining symptoms. When in doubt, seek medical attention.

Lacerations cuts that affect the eyelid margins (where the eyelashes are) or the eyeball itself need immediate medical attention. Foreign bodies that are not removed with gentle washing should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist. Solar retinopathy evaluation by an ophthalmologist is necessary. This is one condition where there is little that can be done in the emergency department.