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Eye Emergencies

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Facing an Eye Emergency? We’re Here to Help.

At Innovative Eye Care, we understand how important rapid, expert attention is to protect your vision. Below, you’ll find guidance on what constitutes an emergency, what to do right now and how we can support you, day or night.

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What is an Eye Emergency?

Please seek immediate help if you experience any of the following:

  • Please seek immediate help if you experience any of the following:
  • A foreign object lodged in the eye
  • Chemical exposure (e.g. household cleaners, acids, alkalis)
  • Sudden flashes or floaters, or a noticeable ‘veil’ across your vision (possible retinal detachment)
  • Moderate to severe eye pain, with or without trauma
  • Unexplained eye redness, swelling, bleeding or discharge

Delaying treatment for these symptoms could lead to permanent damage or vision loss.

Immediate Steps to Take

Avoid touching or rubbing the affected eye. This can worsen injury.

  • Do not attempt to remove a foreign object yourself — this can cause further harm.
  • Flush chemical exposures immediately with clean, running water or sterile saline for at least 10–15 minutes. Keep the eyelid open and remove contact lenses, if possible.
  • Call us right away. We’ll advise on next steps and prepare for your arrival if the injury requires urgent care.
Male optometrist pointing out eye scan on television to patient

What We Can Do for You

Our optometrists at Adelaide (Wakefield Street) and Henley Beach are trained to assess and manage urgent conditions, including foreign bodies, minor injuries, acute vision changes or chemical exposures.

  • You’ll receive one-on-one, expert care from a therapeutically trained optometrist using our latest diagnostic tools.
  • If your condition needs surgical or specialist attention, we’ll arrange urgent referral to an ophthalmologist or hospital which provides emergency ophthalmology services.

After-Hours or Weekend Emergencies

If your emergency occurs outside our opening hours:

  • Proceed to your nearest hospital emergency department, such as the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Calvary Wakefield Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, especially for suspected retinal detachments, penetrating injuries or chemical burns. [RAH Link - https://www.rah.sa.gov.au/]
  • Once initial emergency care is provided, contact us for follow-up and ongoing management.

Why Choose Innovative Eye Care?

  • No handovers: You’re examined directly by a therapeutically qualified optometrist who manages your care from start to finish.
  • Fast, expert decision-making: We can evaluate, treat or refer quickly and with clarity.
  • Continuity of care: From emergency treatment to follow-up, we’ll guide your ongoing recovery with personalised support.

Let Us Help You See Safely

Your vision matters. Whether you’re feeling concerned or experiencing serious discomfort, don’t wait. Reach out immediately or go to an emergency department if it’s urgent. We’re committed to safeguarding your sight with urgency, skill and compassion.

Clinic Phone Hours

Adelaide (Wakefield)

(08) 8231 9341

Mon–Fri:
8:30 am–5:30 pm

Sat:
8:30 am–12 pm

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Henley Beach

(08) 8445 9050

Mon–Fri:
8:30 am–5:30 pm

Sat:
8:30 am–12 pm

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