Welder’s flash, medically known as photokeratitis, is a painful but temporary eye injury resulting from overexposure to intense ultraviolet (UV) light. This condition is essentially a sunburn on the eye, typically caused by the arc light from welding equipment when proper eye protection is not used. The UV radiation damages the cornea’s outermost layer, the epithelium, which is similar to how UV rays cause damage to the skin. While the experience is uncomfortable, the condition usually resolves itself within one to two days, and most cases can be managed effectively with home care.
Recognizing the Signs of Arc Eye
Symptoms of arc eye often do not appear immediately, usually developing between six and twelve hours after the initial UV exposure. This delayed onset means a person may wake up in the middle of the night with severe discomfort, long after the welding activity has ceased. The most common symptom is a severe, painful sensation, often described as having sand or grit trapped in the eyes.
The damage to the corneal surface exposes nerve endings, causing intense pain and a reflexive increase in tear production. Affected individuals also experience photophobia, an extreme sensitivity to light, which can lead to headaches and discomfort. The eyes may appear red, and the eyelids may swell or twitch, making it difficult to keep the eyes open.
Safe and Effective Home Treatment
The primary goal of home treatment is to relieve the pain and discomfort while the corneal epithelium heals itself, which it typically does quickly. The first step is to immediately move to a dark environment and rest the eyes, as minimizing light exposure helps reduce photophobia. If you wear contact lenses, they should be removed immediately to prevent further irritation or potential infection.
Applying a cold compress or a washcloth soaked in cold water over closed eyelids can offer significant relief. The cold temperature helps to temporarily numb the exposed nerve endings on the corneal surface, reducing the burning sensation and swelling. You can use over-the-counter oral pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage pain and inflammation.
To help the eye remain comfortable and support the healing process, use preservative-free artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. These drops help to maintain a moist environment over the damaged corneal surface, which is experiencing temporary dry spots and micro-abrasions. Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this action can worsen the corneal damage and potentially introduce infection. The damaged corneal layer usually regenerates completely within 24 to 48 hours.
Seeking Professional Medical Care
While most cases of photokeratitis heal with home care, there are specific signs that indicate the need for professional medical attention from an eye doctor. If the pain or other symptoms, such as light sensitivity and grittiness, continue or worsen beyond 24 to 48 hours, seek a medical evaluation. A medical visit is also warranted if the pain is excruciating or if you notice any changes in vision, such as blurriness, spots, or halos that do not quickly resolve.
A doctor can perform a specialized eye exam, often using a fluorescein dye to highlight the extent of the corneal damage under a slit lamp. Depending on the severity of the burn, a professional may prescribe antibiotic eye drops to prevent secondary bacterial infection on the damaged surface. In some instances, cycloplegic drops may be used to temporarily paralyze the ciliary muscle, which can spasm and cause deep eye pain in response to the injury.