Chapter 31. Eye Emergencies

Evaluation of the Red or Painful Eye

See Figure 31–1 and Table 31–1.

History and Examination

Historical factors are important in determining the cause of ocular complaints. History, when correlated with characteristic ocular findings on focused physical examination, usually makes the diagnosis. History should include use of eye drops, previous episodes, onset of pain, contact lens use, systemic illnesses and findings, and associated symptoms.

The components of a complete eye examination include the following.

Visual Acuity

Visual acuity testing using a standard acuity chart (Snellen). An acute change in vision usually indicates disease of the eyeball globe or visual pathway. Pain and decreased acuity indicate corneal disease, acute angle-closure glaucoma, or iritis.

Inspection

Inspection of the eye to include conjunctiva, cornea, sclera, lens, and pupil, external lids, lashes, lacrimal ducts, orbits, and periorbital areas for sign of trauma, infection, exudate, or irritation.

Pupillary Function

Check pupillary function for shape, symmetry, and reactivity to light and accommodation.

Extraocular Muscle Function

Extraocular muscle function for any signs of entrapment or palsy.

Visual Fields

Check for abnormalities in the visual fields; this is generally done in the emergency department by confrontation.

Fundoscopy

Direct fundoscopy is generally used to check the retina, optic disc, ...