Emergency Eye Care in Rapid City
At In Vision Optical & Eye Care, our doctors provide urgent eye care for a wide range of conditions during regular business hours. If you are experiencing an eye emergency, call us right away at 605-399-3811.
When to Seek Emergency Eye Care
Prompt attention is important. Delaying care may result in permanent vision loss. Contact us immediately if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
Sudden loss of vision or new blurry vision
Flashes of light or new floaters
Severe eye pain or pressure
Redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye
Double vision
Sensitivity to light
Foreign body in the eye (especially metal or glass)
Eye trauma, bruising, or bleeding in/around the eye
Chemical exposure to the eye
New or severe headaches associated with vision changes
Common Emergency Eye Conditions
Corneal Abrasions & Foreign Objects
Scratches on the surface of the eye (corneal abrasions) can be caused by dust, sand, or injury. Symptoms may include redness, tearing, light sensitivity, or blurry vision.
Do not rub your eye or attempt to remove large objects.
Contact us immediately for proper evaluation and treatment.
Infections & Corneal Ulcers (Often Contact Lens–Related)
Contact lens wear can increase the risk of serious eye infections and corneal ulcers, which can lead to scarring or permanent vision loss if untreated.
Symptoms include severe pain, redness, discharge, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
Discontinue contact lens wear immediately and call our office for urgent evaluation.
Chemical Burns
Exposure to household, industrial, or garden chemicals can cause serious and sometimes permanent eye damage.
Alkali burns (from products containing ammonia, lye, lime, etc.) are especially dangerous.
Acid burns (from battery acid, nail polish remover, or glass cleaner) also require urgent care.
If you experience a chemical splash, flush your eye with clean water right away and call our office immediately.
Eye Trauma
A blow or injury to the eye can affect both the eye and surrounding tissue. Concerning symptoms include swelling, vision changes, pain with movement, or blood inside the eye.
Do not apply pressure to the injured eye.
Contact our office promptly for evaluation.
What to Do Until You Are Seen
Do not rub or press on the eye.
Do not try to remove embedded objects.
Bring any information about the substance (if chemical exposure).
Remove contact lenses if possible.
Our Commitment to Urgent Care
At In Vision Optical & Eye Care, we understand that eye emergencies can be stressful. Our doctors are trained to handle urgent conditions and will make every effort to see you quickly and preserve your vision.