Welder’s eye, medically known as photokeratitis or arc eye, is essentially a painful sunburn of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye. This injury occurs when the eye is exposed to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, most commonly from a welding arc if proper protection is not used. The UV exposure damages the superficial layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. This damage leads to intense, often delayed, pain and a gritty sensation, much like having sand in the eyes. Symptoms such as redness, tearing, and severe light sensitivity typically develop several hours after the initial exposure.
Immediate Self-Care and Relief
The immediate focus upon recognizing the symptoms of welder’s eye is to manage discomfort and prevent further irritation. Move away from bright light and rest in a dark or dimly lit room to minimize painful light sensitivity (photophobia). If contact lenses are worn, remove them immediately to allow the corneal surface to begin healing without obstruction.
A cold compress placed gently over the closed eyelids can help soothe the burning sensation and reduce swelling. Use a clean, soft cloth soaked in cold water to avoid introducing bacteria. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be taken orally to manage the pain.
Using preservative-free artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help moisten the eye surface, temporarily easing the gritty feeling. Do not rub the damaged eyes, as this action can worsen the damage to the corneal epithelium and potentially introduce infection. Monitoring symptoms is important while using home remedies for temporary relief.
When Professional Medical Treatment Is Necessary
While many cases of photokeratitis resolve on their own, certain symptoms require professional medical evaluation to prevent complications. Consult a doctor if the pain remains severe and unmanageable after 24 hours of self-care, or if vision changes, such as persistent blurriness, occur. Signs of a possible secondary infection, including a discharge of pus, increased redness, or fever, also necessitate prompt medical attention.
A medical professional can confirm the diagnosis, often by applying a fluorescent dye to the eye to highlight damaged corneal tissue. Treatment may include prescription pain medication if over-the-counter options are insufficient. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent a bacterial infection from developing in the compromised tissue.
In some instances, the doctor may administer cycloplegic drops, which temporarily relax the eye muscles and dilate the pupil. This relaxation can reduce the deep, aching pain caused by muscle spasms resulting from the injury. Follow-up appointments are often scheduled within 24 to 48 hours to ensure the cornea is healing as expected and to check for complications.
Understanding the Recovery Period
The cornea has a rapid healing capability. For most individuals, the corneal damage begins to repair itself quickly, and symptoms typically subside completely within 24 to 72 hours of the injury. The pain, light sensitivity, and gritty sensation generally peak a few hours after exposure and then diminish as the corneal surface cells regenerate.
In mild to moderate cases, the eye heals without leaving permanent scarring or long-term vision damage. During recovery, avoiding eye strain is important. If a doctor was seen, follow their instructions precisely, especially regarding the use of prescribed drops. If symptoms persist beyond 48 to 72 hours, or if there is concern about the healing process, a follow-up visit with an eye specialist is advised.
Avoiding Welder’s Eye in the Future
Preventing welder’s eye requires strict adherence to safety protocols, as the condition is caused solely by UV radiation exposure. The primary preventative measure is the consistent use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE), specifically a welding helmet or shield with the correct filter lens. The helmet must be worn any time the arc is struck, even for brief periods, because UV radiation can cause damage instantly.
Welding helmet lenses are rated by shade numbers; higher numbers indicate greater light filtration and protection from UV and infrared (IR) rays. The appropriate shade level must be selected based on the specific welding process and the amperage used. For instance, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) often requires a shade between 10 and 14, while Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) uses shades from 10 to 12, depending on the current.
It is also important to protect not only the welder but also bystanders, as UV flash can affect anyone nearby who is not shielded. Anyone in the vicinity of a welding operation should be protected by screens or wear appropriate eye protection to prevent accidental exposure. Taking these preventative steps is the most effective way to protect the corneal tissue from photokeratitis.