Annual eye exams are always a good idea, but sometimes you need to pick up the phone and schedule an urgent care visit to the eye doctor.

Some eye conditions can lead to further complications and vision loss. Some vision diagnoses extend beyond your eyes and involve systemic disease.

What are the biggest warning signs?

“Pain is always a driver for an urgent visit,” says Edward Melman, OD, Vision Source administrator in New Jersey. “That is one of the main signs of infection or inflammation and should always be evaluated as soon as possible, since the earlier an infection or inflammatory condition is treated the better the chance for a good recovery.” 

Pain is just one of the reasons why you should run, not walk, to the eye doctor.