Prompt, Professional Treatment When Every Second Counts
The eyes are delicate and vulnerable to trauma from accidents, exposure to harmful substances, or workplace incidents. Whether caused by blunt force, high-speed debris, chemical splashes, or industrial hazards, eye injuries require immediate attention to reduce the risk of lasting vision damage.
At London Eye & Retina, we provide urgent and same-day care for eye emergencies. Our goal is to protect your vision, relieve discomfort, and prevent long-term complications through timely, evidence-based treatment.
When to Seek Emergency Eye Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Eye pain after an accident or exposure
- Sudden vision changes, flashes, or shadows
- A visible object in or on the eye
- Redness or swelling following injury
- Chemical splashes into the eye
- Bleeding in or around the eye
- Difficulty opening the eyelid or extreme light sensitivity
Even minor symptoms after trauma may indicate a deeper problem, don’t ignore them.
1. Eye Injuries
From Minor Scratches to Sight-Threatening Trauma
Common types of eye injuries include:
- Corneal abrasions – surface scratches that can cause pain, tearing, and sensitivity to light
- Blunt trauma – from sports, falls, or accidents, which may lead to internal bleeding, swelling, or retinal damage
- Penetrating injuries – involving sharp objects that may breach the eye wall
- Lid injuries – including cuts, bruises, or swelling
Our approach includes:
- Slit-lamp examination to assess surface and internal damage
- Imaging (B-scan ultrasound) if internal injury is suspected
- Intraocular pressure checks when needed
- Pain management and infection prevention
- Surgical repair when required
2. Chemical & Thermal Burns
Fast Action Is Critical
Chemical or heat-based injuries can damage the eye surface within minutes. Common causes include:
- Acid or alkali splashes from cleaning agents, industrial chemicals, or lab spills
- Thermal burns from steam, fire, or hot liquids
First aid tip: Begin immediate irrigation with clean water or saline before arriving at the clinic.
In-clinic care may involve:
- Thorough eye flushing
- Evaluation of burn severity
- Topical medication to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Monitoring for corneal damage or delayed complications
Severe burns may require surgical intervention such as amniotic membrane grafting or limbal stem cell therapy.
3. Foreign Body Removal
When Something Gets Into the Eye
Small particles like metal, wood, dust, or plant matter can lodge in the cornea or under the eyelid, causing discomfort, redness, and tearing.
If left untreated, foreign bodies can lead to:
- Corneal infections
- Scarring
- Vision distortion
- Delayed complications such as rust rings (from metal)
Treatment involves:
- Careful removal under magnification and anaesthesia
- Lubrication or bandage contact lenses to aid healing
- Antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection
- Tetanus update, if indicated
4. Industrial Eye Injuries
On-the-Job Hazards Need Professional Follow-Up
Industrial settings carry unique risks for eye trauma, including:
- Flying debris from grinding or cutting
- High-pressure blasts
- Exposure to chemicals or vapours
- Heat or welding injuries
We provide medical documentation, insurance-compliant reporting, and surgical repair where needed.
Our services include:
- Same-day evaluation for workplace accidents
- Management of acute injuries
- Long-term monitoring for vision recovery
- Collaboration with occupational health teams if needed
Your Safety, Our Priority
At London Eye & Retina, we understand that eye injuries can be frightening. We’re here to provide urgent care with compassion and clarity, from assessment to recovery.
Book Emergency Eye Care
If you've experienced an eye injury or exposure, do not wait. Prompt treatment can prevent serious complications and preserve your vision.
