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Warning-sign checks

LASIK: 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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    These concerns are usually handled through routine or earlier follow-up rather than emergency care.

    Seek emergency eye care after a significant eye injury or if you have sudden major vision loss, severe pain, or a flap that appears to have moved.

    Do not rub or press the eye while arranging help.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your surgical team promptly if dryness, blurred vision, glare, or discomfort is not improving as expected.

    Seek urgent same-day eye assessment for increasing redness, worsening pain, discharge, marked light sensitivity, or a sudden decline in vision.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on LASIK. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.