Emergency
Suddenly cannot see, or severe eye pain?
Go to A&E or call 999 if you suddenly cannot see from one or both eyes, or you suddenly have severe eye pain. Do not drive yourself.
NHS: vision lossUrgent eye problems
Who to contact for sudden loss of sight, severe pain, flashes, floaters and new double vision.
The NHS 111 advice below follows guidance for England. Elsewhere in the UK, use your local urgent-care service. In an emergency, call 999.
Urgent, the same day
New flashes, floaters or a dark curtain?
Ask for an urgent optometrist appointment or contact NHS 111 if you have flashes or floaters for the first time, a sudden increase in them, a dark curtain or shadow, blurred vision or eye pain alongside them, or floaters after eye surgery or an injury.
NHS: flashes and floatersNew double vision
Sudden double vision, or double vision with eye pain, needs an urgent GP appointment or NHS 111. Double or blurred vision with a severe headache or an enlarged pupil, or double vision after a head injury, needs 999 or A&E.
NHS: double visionA red, painful eye, or bright light hurting your eyes
Ask for an urgent GP or optometrist appointment, or contact NHS 111. Take contact lenses out and do not put them back in until you have been seen.
NHS: when to get helpCheck your local route
Eye casualty services often need a referral or a phone call first. Do not delay emergency care while you look through the directory.
Browse UK areas