Warning-sign checks
Cloudy cornea: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Go to an emergency department now after a chemical splash, penetrating injury, or high-speed impact to the eye.
Emergency assessment is also needed for sudden major vision loss or a painful red eye with severe headache, nausea, or vomiting.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
- Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
- Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
- Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
- Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
- Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
- Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
- Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
- Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen todaySeek same-day urgent eye care for new clouding accompanied by:
- Eye pain, marked redness, or strong light sensitivity
- New or worsening blurred vision
- Pus-like discharge
- A visible white spot, especially over the pupil
- Symptoms while wearing contact lenses or soon after removing them
- Cloudiness in a baby or young child
Start rinsing a chemical-exposed eye immediately with clean, lukewarm water and do not delay rinsing while arranging help.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointmentIf the change is painless and gradual, book a routine eye appointment rather than waiting indefinitely.
New or persistent clouding should be examined even when your vision seems normal.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Cloudy cornea. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.