It is a common concern to accidentally get hand sanitizer in the eye. While the experience can be alarming and cause immediate discomfort, taking prompt action is key to minimizing potential issues. This article provides clear guidance on how to respond if hand sanitizer enters the eye.
Immediate Actions for Eye Exposure
Upon contact, hand sanitizer causes an immediate stinging or burning sensation, often accompanied by redness and tearing. This sensation can be intense, but it is important to remain calm and avoid rubbing the eye, as this can worsen the irritation or cause further injury.
The first step is to immediately and thoroughly flush the affected eye with clean water. Use a gentle stream of room-temperature tap water, a saline solution, or an eyewash. Continue flushing for 15 to 20 minutes to remove the irritant. If wearing contact lenses, remove them after flushing begins, taking care not to cause additional irritation. When flushing, hold the eye open as much as possible and direct the water from the inner corner of the eye towards the outer corner.
Understanding Hand Sanitizer’s Effects
The primary reason hand sanitizer causes irritation when it enters the eye is its alcohol content. Hand sanitizers contain 60% to 95% alcohol, which acts as a disinfectant but is an irritant to the delicate tissues of the eye. This high concentration of alcohol can lead to symptoms such as sharp pain, redness, and swelling.
Alcohol has the potential to cause chemical burns on the cornea, which is the transparent outer layer of the eye. While alcohol can damage the surface of the eye, it is less likely to cause damage to deeper structures. Other ingredients like fragrances, emollients, or alternative active ingredients can also contribute to the irritation.
Recognizing When to Seek Medical Care
While immediate flushing often resolves minor irritation, certain signs and symptoms indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. Seek urgent eye examination if you experience persistent sharp pain, continued redness, or irritation after thorough flushing. Other concerning symptoms include blurred vision, sensitivity to light (photophobia), discharge from the eye, or any changes in vision.
Prompt medical attention is particularly important for infants, young children, or individuals with pre-existing eye conditions. If medical help is sought, consider bringing the hand sanitizer bottle with you, as knowing the exact ingredients can assist healthcare providers in their assessment. In some severe cases, complications like keratitis, an open sore on the eye, or corneal abrasions (scratches on the eye’s surface) can occur, making timely intervention important.
Tips for Safe Hand Sanitizer Use
Preventing accidental eye exposure to hand sanitizer involves adopting practical habits. Always apply hand sanitizer away from the face to minimize the risk of splashes. For young children, adult supervision is important when they use hand sanitizer, as their eye level often aligns with dispenser nozzles, increasing the chance of accidental spray.
After applying hand sanitizer, rub your hands together thoroughly until they are completely dry before touching your face, especially your eyes. Store hand sanitizer bottles out of the reach of small children to prevent accidents. Checking the nozzle for any blockages before use can also prevent forceful, upward squirts.