Emergency Eye Appointment

Urgent eye care at Southwest Eye Institute in El Paso, TX, and Las Cruces, NM

What is Considered An Eye Emergency?

Eye emergencies can happen without warning. Whether it’s sudden vision changes, pain, or an injury, getting the right care quickly can make the difference in protecting your sight. At Southwest Eye Institute, we provide same-day emergency eye care for urgent conditions, helping diagnose and treat problems before they lead to permanent damage. This may be a painless but serious condition, such as a retinal detachment, or an acutely painful issue, such as a severe eye injury or a glaucoma attack. Eye emergencies are treated as a top priority, especially those involving sudden vision loss, new visual disturbances, or significant eye pain. Early intervention is critical. Many eye emergencies can lead to rapid and irreversible vision damage if not addressed promptly. During business hours, patients should call Southwest Eye Institute immediately if an urgent eye problem occurs. After hours, patients should call 911 for emergency medical help.

Patient with eye pain consulting an eye doctor for emergency eye care evaluation.

Your vision is irreplaceable. While eye emergencies are frightening, prompt treatment can often save sight or significantly improve outcomes. Southwest Eye Institute ophthalmologists have extensive experience managing urgent eye conditions and are prepared to act quickly when every minute matters.

Call (915) 267-2020

Symptoms That Require Immediate Care

The following symptoms are considered eye emergencies. If you experience any of these symptoms, please call us immediately. If after hours, please call 911.

Sudden loss or decrease in vision

A sudden change in vision, whether partial or complete, can signal a serious issue, such as retinal detachment, bleeding, or a blood flow obstruction. Even if vision returns quickly, it should still be evaluated immediately to rule out underlying conditions.

Severe eye pain or pressure

Intense eye pain or a feeling of pressure behind the eye may indicate elevated eye pressure, infection, or inflammation. These conditions can progress quickly and may lead to vision loss if not treated right away.

Double vision

Seeing two images instead of one can be caused by problems with the eye muscles, nerves, or even neurological conditions. Sudden-onset double vision should always be treated as urgent and evaluated promptly.

New flashes of light or floaters

While occasional floaters can be normal, a sudden increase—especially when paired with flashes of light—may indicate the retina is being pulled or torn. Early treatment is critical to prevent retinal detachment.

A “curtain” or shadow over your vision

A dark shadow, curtain, or veil moving across your field of vision is a classic warning sign of retinal detachment. This is a true emergency and requires immediate attention to preserve sight.

Blood or fluid coming from the eye

Any visible blood, discharge, or clear fluid leaking from the eye may indicate trauma, infection, or internal damage. This should never be ignored and requires urgent medical evaluation.

Chemical exposure

Exposure to cleaning products, chemicals, or fumes can quickly damage the surface of the eye. Immediate flushing followed by professional care is essential to reduce the risk of permanent injury.

Swelling or pain after eye surgery

Some discomfort after surgery is normal, but increasing pain, swelling, or vision changes may indicate a complication. Prompt evaluation helps ensure proper healing and prevents more serious issues.