Emergency Eye Care at Family Eye Care
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Eye emergencies can happen when you least expect them. At Family Eye Care in North Andover, our doctors are trained and equipped to evaluate and treat many urgent eye conditions. With the right technology and expertise, we can often provide faster, more effective care than a general emergency room for eye-specific issues.
When to Go to the ER
Some emergencies require immediate hospital care. Go to the emergency room right away if you:
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Have an eye puncture or laceration
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Are bleeding from the eye
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Sustained other serious bodily injuries along with eye trauma
When to Call Us
If your situation is limited to the eyes, we are often the best place to turn. Contact us immediately if you experience:
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Sudden change in vision (loss, blurriness, or double vision)
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Flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters
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A foreign object in the eye (dust, wood, metal, etc.)
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Discharge, redness, or bloodshot eyes
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Severe light sensitivity
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Burning, stinging, or itching
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Irregular eye movements
These symptoms may escalate quickly—early care can prevent serious or permanent damage.
Our Emergency Services
Our medical optometrists, Dr. Patti Richard and Dr. Jann, can diagnose and treat most ocular emergencies, including scratches, infections, and foreign body removal.
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During office hours: Call our office immediately.
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After hours: Call Dr. Richard directly at 978-337-9358.
Telemedicine for Eye Emergencies
When possible, we can provide telemedicine consultations to assess your symptoms and guide your next steps—saving you valuable time and providing peace of mind.
What To Do Before You’re Seen
If you’re experiencing an eye emergency:
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Wash your hands to avoid infection if the issue is contagious.
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Do not attempt to remove an object stuck in your eye.
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Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes.
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Do not drive or operate machinery if your vision is impaired.