Understanding Arc Eye
Arc eye, also known as photokeratitis or welder’s flash, is a painful eye condition caused by unprotected exposure to intense ultraviolet (UV) light. It is often described as a sunburn of the cornea, the clear, outermost layer of the eye. While typically temporary, the discomfort it causes can be significant, potentially impairing vision and increasing the risk of long-term damage with repeated incidents. This condition underscores the importance of protecting the eyes from harmful radiation.
Arc eye occurs when the cornea becomes inflamed due to direct exposure to strong UV radiation. This radiation can originate from various sources, including:
Electric arcs produced during welding
UV lights in tanning beds
Sun lamps
Natural sunlight reflected off highly reflective surfaces like snow or water
Symptoms typically do not appear immediately, often developing between 3 to 12 hours after exposure. Individuals experiencing arc eye often report a sensation similar to having sand or a foreign object in their eyes. Other common symptoms include intense eye pain, excessive tearing, blurred vision, and heightened sensitivity to light, known as photophobia. The eyes may also appear red, and the eyelids can become swollen, sometimes accompanied by a headache.
Relieving Symptoms and Professional Care
Immediate steps can help alleviate the discomfort of arc eye. Applying cool compresses gently over closed eyelids can provide soothing relief. Resting your eyes in a dim environment and avoiding any strenuous visual activities, such as reading or watching television, can also aid recovery. It is important to resist the urge to rub your eyes, as this can worsen irritation or introduce bacteria.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage the pain. Additionally, using lubricating eye drops, which are different from redness-reducing drops, may help soothe dryness and irritation. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately and avoid wearing them until your eyes have fully healed, typically for several days, to prevent further irritation or infection.
Seeking professional medical attention is recommended if symptoms are severe, persist beyond 24 to 48 hours, or worsen. Vision changes, intense pain, or any signs of infection, such as discharge or increased swelling, warrant an urgent medical evaluation. An eye care professional can diagnose the condition, check for any foreign bodies, and ensure there are no other underlying issues.
Medical treatment may involve prescribed antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent bacterial infections, as the damaged corneal surface is more susceptible. Dilating eye drops might be administered to help relax the eye muscles and reduce pain. For severe pain, a doctor may also prescribe stronger pain medication.
Preventing Future Incidents
Preventing arc eye primarily involves consistent use of appropriate eye protection. For activities like welding, a proper welding helmet with an auto-darkening filter is essential to block harmful UV and infrared radiation. Ensure the helmet meets recognized safety standards, such as ANSI Z87.1, and select the correct shade level for the specific welding process.
When engaging in outdoor activities, particularly in environments with high UV reflection such as snowy landscapes or near water, wear sunglasses or goggles that block 100% of UV rays. Look for eyewear labeled UV 400, which offers comprehensive protection. Wrap-around styles or those with side shields provide enhanced coverage by preventing UV light from entering from the periphery.
Awareness of high-risk environments is also important. Besides welding, sources like tanning beds, sun lamps, and certain laboratory UV lights can cause arc eye if proper eyewear is not used. For those working near welding operations, protective screens or curtains should be used to shield bystanders from indirect UV exposure.