About Emergency Eye Care
Sudden changes in your vision or painful eye symptoms should never be ignored. At iCare, we offer Emergency Eye Care appointments to provide urgent assessment and treatment when you need it most.
Common symptoms that may require immediate attention include:
Sudden loss or change of vision
Severe or persistent eye pain
Flashes of light or sudden onset of floaters
Red, swollen, or inflamed eyes
Injury to the eye
A white reflex in a child’s eye (visible in photographs)
Our experienced optometrists use advanced diagnostic equipment to quickly identify the cause of your symptoms and ensure you get the right treatment. Where necessary, we can refer you to hospital eye services for further specialist care.
Your vision is too important to take risks with — if you’re concerned, book an urgent appointment without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as an eye emergency?
Any sudden or severe change in your vision, significant pain, injury, or new symptoms such as flashes and floaters should be treated as urgent.
Can I go to an optician instead of A&E?
Yes. Optometrists are trained to deal with most urgent eye problems and can refer you directly to hospital eye services if needed.
How quickly can I be seen?
We aim to offer same-day appointments for emergency cases. Please call us as soon as you notice symptoms.
What should I do if I injure my eye?
Avoid rubbing the eye and contact us immediately. If the injury is severe, attend A&E straight away.
Can emergency appointments be covered by the NHS?
Yes, in many cases. NHS funding is available for urgent eye care assessments depending on your circumstances. Our team can advise you.
