A flash burn of the eye, medically termed photokeratitis or arc eye, is a temporary but painful inflammatory condition affecting the eye’s surface. It is essentially a sunburn that occurs on the delicate tissues at the front of the eye. This injury involves the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped outer layer) and the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye). Intense ultraviolet (UV) light exposure causes damage to the surface cells of these structures.
How Flash Burns Occur
The injury is triggered by an intense burst of UV radiation striking the unprotected eye. The most frequent source is exposure to the brilliant light created during arc welding, often called “welder’s flash,” when proper protective gear is not worn. Various other environments and activities can also deliver the high-intensity UV light necessary to cause damage.
Prolonged use of sunlamps or tanning beds without appropriate eye shields exposes the eyes to harmful UV rays. Naturally occurring sources also present a risk, such as intense reflection of sunlight off large white surfaces. This reflection is known as “snow blindness” when UV rays reflect off snow, water, or sand. Looking directly at the sun, particularly during a solar eclipse without specialized filters, is another mechanism that can cause this surface burn.
Identifying the Pain and Appearance
A distinguishing feature of a flash burn is the delayed onset of symptoms, which usually begin six to twelve hours after the exposure event. This delayed reaction often causes the patient to wake up in the middle of the night with significant discomfort. The delay occurs because it takes time for the damaged surface cells of the cornea to die and slough off.
The most common sensation is a severe, gritty pain, feeling intensely like sand or a foreign object is lodged in the eye. The eyes become extremely sensitive to light, a condition known as photophobia. They will also produce excessive tears (lacrimation) as the body attempts to soothe the irritation.
Visually, the eye will appear noticeably red and bloodshot due to the inflamed conjunctiva. Although the eye looks inflamed, the burn itself involves a microscopic erosion of the corneal surface cells, which is not visible to the naked eye. This damage can cause the patient’s vision to be temporarily blurred or hazy until the surface layer begins to heal.
Essential Management and Recovery
Immediate steps for relief involve moving to a dark environment to reduce painful light sensitivity. Applying a cool, damp compress over the closed eyelids can help soothe the inflammation and provide comfort. It is important to avoid rubbing the eyes, as this action can worsen the microscopic damage to the corneal surface.
Medical treatment focuses on managing pain and preventing secondary infection while the eye heals itself. An eye care professional may prescribe lubricating eye drops to keep the corneal surface moist and comfortable. Sometimes, a short course of antibiotic drops is provided to minimize the risk of bacterial infection in the compromised tissue.
Over-the-counter oral pain relievers are often recommended to manage discomfort during the initial healing phase. The condition is usually temporary, with the corneal surface cells regenerating completely within 24 to 72 hours. Anyone who suspects they have a flash burn should seek prompt medical attention from an eye care professional for a proper examination and prescribed treatment.