Preventing Chemicals Burns to the Eyes | Home Eye Safety Month

Eye injuries at home may include trauma and foreign bodies in the eye. Chemical burns to the eyes are another type of injury that can occur. Depending on your job, chemical burns may be more likely at work, but there are plenty of things at home that can lead to chemical burns.

October is Home Eye Safety Month. It is a good time to remind yourself to take precautions to protect your eyes from injury, including chemical burns. 
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​What are chemical burns to the eyes?

Chemical burns usually involve a powder or liquid irritant that gets into the eye. The chemical often gets into the eye from a splash to the face, but it can also occur if you are handling a chemical and it gets on your hands, and then you rub your eyes.

The injury to the eye may vary in severity. In some cases, the injury may only cause redness and irritation. In other instances, it could lead to vision loss. 
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Causes of chemical eye burns at home

Various chemicals can burn the eyes at home. Common types of substances that can lead to chemical burns include:

• Ammonia
• Bleach
• Chlorine
• Cleaners
• Disinfectants
• Pesticides

Damage from chemical burns to the eye can happen very quickly, which is why immediate medical attention is needed.  According to Harvard Medical School, injury to the eye can occur in as little as one minute. 
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Symptoms 

The symptoms of chemical burns to the eye may depend on the substance. Certain types of chemicals, such as those that are alkaline, tend to cause more severe injuries.

Symptoms usually start as soon as the substance comes in contact with the eye and may include:

• Burning
• Pain
• Redness
• Blurry vision
• Swelling on the eyelid

If the injury is severe, complications and damage to the eye may include:

• Damage to the cornea either superficially or deeper
• Increased pressure in the eye
• Cataracts
• Vision loss 

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Preventing chemical burns

With all the chemicals that may be used in and around your home, it is vital to take precautions to avoid any chemical injuries to the eyes. Keep the following home safety tips in mind:

Wear safety goggles: Anytime you are working with chemicals, it is best to wear safety goggles or a face shield. The safety wear should be made of a smash-resistant material. Be sure it fits well and covers the side of the eyes.

Know the chemicals you are using: Check the label on the chemical you use around your house to know how to handle it safely. In some cases, it may be possible to swap out a hazardous chemical for something less harmful. You may also be able to use a pellet or solid material, which is less likely to get into the eye.

Keep safety eyewear in good condition: Keep a pair of safety goggles at home, so it will be handy when needed. Check the goggles before you use them to be sure they are still in good condition. Safety goggles and face shields do not last forever. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for how often they should be replaced.

Follow chemical directions: Always follow all the manufacturer’s directions for handling chemicals. This includes not mixing chemicals when it is not recommended. 
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Emergency treatment for eye burns 

If you sustain any type of chemical burn, it is important to immediately irrigate the eye and then see your eye doctor or, if that is not possible, go to an ER or urgent care center. Even if you think the injury is mild, it is best to have it checked out. 

The type of medical treatment needed will depend on the severity of the injury. Chemical burns to the eye are classified into grades from one to four. Treatment for injuries may include:

• Antibiotic eye drops
• Topical steroids
• Surgery

If you have any questions about chemical burns or would like to talk about whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, give our office a call at 508-746-8600.