Eye problems
Common eye problems — irritation, discharge, a stye, a minor injury — are usually minor and settle on their own or with simple self-care. Some problems though need urgent assessment to protect your sight. This section covers first aid for eye injuries and when to seek help.
Get advice about your symptoms
If you are unwell and unsure what to do, use one of the routes below. They are free and available across the UK, and can direct you to the right service.
- Check your symptoms online at 111.nhs.uk
- Call 111 for free 24-hour advice from NHS 111
- Speak to a pharmacist for advice on minor problems — no appointment needed
- Contact your GP for non-urgent medical problems
Call 999 immediately in a life-threatening emergency — for example loss of consciousness, severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe bleeding or a suspected stroke.
What this section covers
- General eye care and irritation
- Eye discharge and infections
- First aid for eye injuries
- When to see an optician, GP or call 111
- When to go to A&E
Explore this section
Choose a topic from the list below for more detail. Every page on NHS Direct is general information only and is not a substitute for advice from a doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
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In this section
- Eye dischargeSticky or watery eye discharge — common causes including conjunctivitis, and self-care.
- First aid for eye injuriesWhat to do — and what not to do — for eye injuries, chemical splashes, and pain relief.
- General eye careEveryday eye care — regular sight tests, screen breaks, and how to keep your eyes healthy.
- Head injury with eye symptomsHead injury with visual symptoms — what to watch for and when to go to A&E.
- Pain relief for eye pain (paracetamol or ibuprofen)Paracetamol and ibuprofen for eye pain — safe use and when to seek advice.
- Standard pain relief for eye discomfortParacetamol and ibuprofen for eye pain — safe use and when to seek advice.