Sudden eye pain is alarming, and rightly so. While some causes are minor and self-limiting, others are genuine emergencies that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated quickly. The challenge is knowing which is which.
As a therapeutically endorsed optometrist, Dr Zobaida Tahiri at Prime Optometrists Auburn can assess and treat most causes of sudden eye pain on the same day — in many cases faster and with more specialised tools than a hospital emergency department.
Sudden eye pain in Auburn?
Call us now on (02) 9761 0005. Same-day urgent care. No referral needed. 43 Auburn Road, Auburn NSW 2144.
Common Causes of Sudden Eye Pain
Corneal Abrasion (Scratched Eye)
One of the most common causes. The cornea is one of the most densely innervated surfaces of the body, which is why even a small scratch causes intense pain, tearing, and sensitivity to light. Common causes include fingernails, tree branches, contact lenses, or dust particles. Do not rub the eye — call us for same-day assessment.
Foreign Body in the Eye
Metal, wood, dirt or glass embedded in the eye or under the eyelid causes a sharp, persistent pain that does not ease with blinking. Workers in industries around Silverwater, Granville, Auburn, and Clyde are particularly at risk. Do not attempt to remove it yourself — call us immediately.
Iritis (Anterior Uveitis)
Iritis is inflammation of the iris and is one of the more serious causes of eye pain. It typically presents as a deep, aching pain with significant light sensitivity and a red eye — often without discharge. It requires prescription anti-inflammatory drops and steroid treatment. Left untreated, it can cause complications including glaucoma and cataracts.
Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma
This is a true eye emergency. Symptoms include sudden, severe eye pain — often described as throbbing — combined with a headache, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights. Intraocular pressure spikes dramatically and can cause permanent optic nerve damage within hours. Call us immediately or go to emergency if you cannot reach us.
Corneal Ulcer
A corneal ulcer is a bacterial or viral infection of the cornea, often associated with contact lens overwear. It presents as a painful, red eye with photophobia and sometimes a visible white spot on the cornea. This requires urgent antibiotic or antiviral drops — and is treated in-clinic by Dr Tahiri.
Arc Eye (Photokeratitis)
Welders, angle grinder users, and anyone exposed to unfiltered UV light can develop arc eye — a corneal sunburn that causes severe pain, watery eyes, and light sensitivity, typically 6–12 hours after exposure. See our guide on arc eye treatment.
Dry Eye Flare-Up
Severe dry eye can cause sharp, burning pain, particularly after prolonged screen use, in air-conditioned environments, or on windy days. This is less urgent but still worth prompt assessment.
When to Call an Optometrist vs Go to Hospital
Call (02) 9761 0005 for: foreign body, corneal abrasion, sudden red painful eye, arc eye, eye infection, or contact lens pain. Go directly to hospital if: vision is suddenly gone or severely reduced, you suspect a penetrating injury, or the pain is accompanied by nausea and halos (possible acute glaucoma and we are not available).
What to Expect When You Call Us
We will ask you a few quick questions over the phone to triage the urgency. In almost all cases, we will book you in for the same day. The consultation involves a detailed history, slit lamp examination, intraocular pressure check if indicated, and fluorescein staining to check the corneal surface. Treatment and prescription, if needed, happen at the same visit.