Eye Injuries
A split second can change everything when it comes to your vision. Whether it’s a piece of metal flying from a construction site, a chemical splash during cleaning, or even something as simple as a tree branch catching your eye during yard work, eye injuries demand immediate attention and proper care to protect your sight.
At Vision Source Mandan, we understand the urgency and concern you feel when facing an eye injury. Our experienced team of optometrists, led by Dr. Brittany Schauer, Dr. Wayne Aberle, and Dr. Danielle Dyke, provides comprehensive eye care and emergency services to help protect your vision in the event of an accident. With over 70 years of serving the Mandan and Bismarck communities, we’re equipped to handle urgent eye care situations with the skill and compassion you deserve.
Common Types of Eye Injuries We Treat
Eye injuries can happen anywhere and at any time, from workplace accidents to recreational activities.
Chemical Burns
Chemical burns occur when household cleaners, automotive fluids, or industrial substances come into contact with your eyes, potentially causing severe damage to the cornea and surrounding tissues.
Foreign Objects
Foreign objects in the eye are another frequent concern we address at our Mandan office. Metal shavings, wood chips, dust, or even contact lenses can become lodged in your eye, causing pain, tearing, and potentially leading to corneal scratches.
Blunt Trauma
Blunt trauma from sports injuries, falls, or accidents can lead to serious complications, including retinal detachment, fractures around the eye socket, or damage to the internal structures of your eye.
Abrasions
Cuts and scratches to the eye area require careful evaluation to determine the extent of damage. Even seemingly minor scratches on the cornea can lead to infections or scarring if not treated properly by qualified professionals.
When to Seek Emergency Eye Care
Recognizing the signs that require immediate medical attention can mean the difference between saving your vision and facing permanent damage. You should contact our office immediately or seek emergency care if you experience:
- Sudden vision loss
Severe eye pain - Flashing lights or floaters that appear suddenly
Chemical exposure to your eyes always warrants urgent care, regardless of the substance involved. Even if the pain seems manageable initially, chemical burns can continue causing damage long after the initial contact. Similarly, if you have something stuck in your eye, avoid the temptation to rub or try to remove it yourself, as this can cause additional injury.
Signs You Need Professional Care
Any penetrating injury to your eye requires immediate professional evaluation. Blood in the white part of your eye, double vision, or inability to move your eye normally are all serious symptoms that should never be ignored. Additionally, if you experience persistent pain, excessive tearing, or sensitivity to light following any eye trauma, these symptoms indicate potential damage that needs professional assessment.
Changes in your pupil size or shape, especially if only one eye is affected, can signal serious internal injury. Trust your instincts; if something feels seriously wrong with your eye after an injury, it probably requires professional attention.
How Vision Source Mandan Can Help
Our comprehensive vision care approach means we’re prepared to handle a wide range of eye injuries and emergencies. Dr. Schauer and our team utilize advanced diagnostic equipment to thoroughly evaluate the extent of any injury and develop an appropriate treatment plan. We can provide immediate pain relief, safely remove foreign objects, and initiate treatment to prevent infection or further complications.
When injuries require surgical intervention, we maintain strong relationships with qualified ophthalmologic surgeons and can arrange prompt referrals while coordinating your care throughout the process. Our goal is to ensure you receive the right level of care at the right time to preserve your vision and promote proper healing.
Protecting Your Eyes from Future Injuries
Prevention remains your best defense against eye injuries. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, wearing proper protective eyewear can prevent 90% of eye injuries. Wearing appropriate protective eyewear during work, sports, or any activity that poses a risk to your eyes significantly reduces your chances of serious eye injury. Safety glasses, goggles, or face shields should be part of your routine when using power tools, working with chemicals, or participating in high-risk recreational activities.
We can help you select the right protective eyewear for your specific needs and ensure it fits properly for maximum protection. Regular comprehensive eye exams also help us monitor your overall eye health and identify any pre-existing conditions that might affect how your eyes respond to injury.
Exceptional Eye Care When You Need It Most at Vision Source Mandan
When eye injuries occur, you need experienced professionals you can trust to provide prompt, effective care. At Vision Source Mandan, our legacy of excellence spans over seven decades, beginning with Dr. John Stenslie in 1950 and continuing today under our skilled team of optometrists. We mix advanced technology with compassionate care to address your emergency eye care needs while helping you understand your treatment options every step of the way.
Dr. Brittany Schauer, who has served our community since 2012 and now owns the practice, leads our team alongside Dr. Wayne Aberle and Dr. Danielle Dyke in providing comprehensive eye care services. Whether you need immediate attention for an eye injury or want to discuss protective measures for your lifestyle, we’re here to help. Contact us today at 701-663-0313 or through our convenient online form to ensure your vision receives the professional care it deserves.
