Super glue, or cyanoacrylate adhesive, in the eye can be alarming. This adhesive bonds quickly upon exposure to moisture, which is abundant in and around the eye.
Immediate Steps for Eye Exposure
Rinse the affected eye thoroughly with lukewarm water. This should be done for 15 to 30 minutes, using a gentle stream from a faucet, shower, or clean container. During rinsing, keep the eyelids open as much as possible to allow water to reach all affected areas.
Super glue reacts with moisture on the eye’s surface and eyelids, polymerizing to form a rubbery, sometimes white, substance. This reaction usually bonds the glue to itself or to proteins in tears and skin, rather than permanently adhering to the eyeball. Encouraging natural blinking during rinsing can help gently dislodge the glue as it cures and becomes less adhesive.
When Professional Medical Attention is Necessary
Professional medical attention is often necessary after super glue exposure to the eye. Seek immediate medical evaluation if vision is impaired or pain persists after rinsing. An ophthalmologist can assess the injury and ensure no glue remains that could cause further irritation.
Medical intervention is also required if eyelids are glued shut and cannot be gently opened after thorough rinsing. The glue may adhere to the eyeball or cause a corneal abrasion, requiring expert assessment and treatment. Any persistent discomfort, redness, unusual discharge, or a gritty sensation warrants prompt medical consultation.
Actions to Strictly Avoid
Avoid certain actions that can cause more harm. Never rub the eye or pull on any glued areas, as this can cause abrasions to the delicate eye surface or tear the skin. Forcefully separating stuck eyelids can lead to significant injury.
Avoid using solvents like acetone or nail polish remover near or in the eye. These chemicals can cause severe chemical burns and further irritate or damage the eye. Do not use sharp objects to scrape or pick off the glue, as this poses a high risk of mechanical injury to the eye or surrounding tissues.
What to Expect During Recovery
After the incident and any medical intervention, the eye may experience mild irritation, redness, or light sensitivity for a few days. It is common for the eye to feel gritty or sandy as residual glue particles or irritated tissues heal. The glue, particularly if on eyelashes or eyelid margins, will typically detach on its own as natural oils and skin cell turnover occur, usually within one to four days.
To manage discomfort, a doctor may recommend over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to keep the eye moist and aid natural shedding. Continued monitoring for any worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, redness, or vision changes, is important. If any concerns arise during recovery, follow up with a healthcare provider promptly.