Emergency Eye Care Services in Singapore
- The Straits Eye Centre
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 19
Why Emergency Eye Care Matters
Eye emergencies can happen at any time, from a sudden chemical splash to a sharp foreign object in the eye. Without prompt treatment, these injuries can cause permanent damage or even vision loss.
Emergency eye care in Singapore provides immediate assessment, treatment, and follow-up to safeguard sight. Knowing when and where to seek urgent help can make the difference between full recovery and long-term complications.
Common Emergency Eye Conditions
Foreign Body in the Eye
Metal, dust, or wood fragments can lodge in the cornea or conjunctiva. Immediate removal by a specialist prevents scarring and infection.
Chemical Eye Injury
Exposure to cleaning agents, industrial chemicals, or household products can burn the ocular surface. Emergency care includes immediate flushing, pain relief, and treatment to limit long-term damage.
Eye Trauma
Blunt injuries, lacerations, or accidents can damage the cornea, eyelids, or internal eye structures. Emergency treatment reduces risks of infection and permanent loss of sight.
Sudden Vision Loss
Rapid loss of vision may indicate retinal detachment, acute glaucoma, or vascular occlusion. These require urgent specialist intervention.
What to Do in an Eye Emergency
Do not rub the eye. This can worsen damage.
Flush with clean water if chemicals are involved, then seek immediate medical care.
Do not attempt to remove embedded objects. Cover the eye lightly and go to the hospital.
Seek specialist care quickly. The faster treatment is given, the better the chance of recovery.
What Services to Expect from Emergency Eye Care
Immediate Assessment: Quick diagnosis using slit-lamp and imaging where needed.
Stabilisation & Treatment: Removal of foreign bodies, neutralisation of chemicals, or surgical repair for trauma.
Pain Relief & Protection: Medications and protective shields are provided where appropriate.
Follow-up Monitoring; Ensures healing, detects complications, and restores function as much as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I go to the emergency for an eye issue?
Seek urgent care if you experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, chemical exposure, trauma, or a foreign body in the eye.
2. Can I rinse my eye at home after chemical injury?
Yes, rinse with plenty of clean water immediately, but still seek emergency specialist treatment.
3. How quickly should I see a doctor after an eye injury?
As soon as possible, delays increase the risk of permanent damage. Ideally, within the first hour.
4. What happens if a foreign body is not removed?
It can cause scarring, infection, or vision loss. Professional removal is essential.
5. Are emergency eye treatments covered by Medisave or insurance?
Yes. Untreated trauma, chemical burns, or retinal emergencies can result in permanent sight loss.
7. Should I go to a GP or directly to an eye specialist?
Go directly to an eye emergency service or hospital with an ophthalmology department for faster, targeted care.
8. What should I bring when seeking emergency care?
Bring a list of medications, details of the incident (e.g., chemical type), and any relevant medical history.
Meet Our Specialists
At The Straits Eye Centre, your vision care is in the hands of a dedicated team of experienced ophthalmologists. Each of our doctors brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to delivering thorough, patient-focused care for all ages. Whether you need advanced cataract surgery, paediatric eye management, or treatment for complex eye conditions, our team works together to provide the same attentive care we would want for our own families.
Dr Jayant V Iyer
Senior Consultant & Medical Director
Special interest: Cataract, Glaucoma, General Ophthalmology With specialist training in Singapore and the UK, Dr Jayant V Iyer has served as Head of Department at Sengkang General Hospital and Senior Consultant at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. He is committed to delivering safe, precise surgical care with clear communication at every stage.
Dr Jason Lee
Senior Consultant & Medical Director
Special interest: Oculoplastics, General Ophthalmology, Myopia, Cataract, Diabetic Retinopathy Dr Jason Lee has extensive training in eyelid, orbital, and tear system surgery, with fellowships completed in Taiwan and China. Previously a Senior Consultant at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, he co-founded The Vision Mission, a non-profit bringing sustainable eye care to communities in Asia.
Cost, Medisave, and Insurance
Many procedures at The Straits Eye Centre are eligible for Medisave claims under MOH guidelines, and certain insurance plans may cover part or all of your treatment costs. Our patient care team will guide you through eligibility, claim limits, and paperwork, so you can focus on your recovery. For more details, refer to our Medisave & Insurance Guide.
Secure Your Appointment at The Straits Eye Centre
at Parkway East Hospital
Your vision health deserves timely and professional attention. Book your appointment now at our Parkway East Hospital clinic and take the first step towards clearer, healthier sight.
