Glow sticks produce light through a chemical reaction. They consist of a plastic tube containing two separate liquids. Bending the stick breaks an inner glass vial, allowing the chemicals to mix and generate a vibrant glow through chemiluminescence. Knowing how to react if their contents accidentally enter your eye is important for immediate safety.
Immediate Steps to Take
If glow stick liquid splashes into your eye, immediately flush it with water. Rinse the eye continuously with a gentle stream of cool or lukewarm water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Methods include holding the eye open under a faucet, using a clean cup to pour water, or stepping into a shower. If you wear contact lenses, remove them quickly during flushing to ensure complete irrigation.
Continue rinsing for the recommended duration, even if the initial stinging sensation subsides quickly. The goal is to dilute and wash away as much of the chemical as possible from the eye’s surface. After flushing, contact a poison control center or seek medical advice.
Understanding the Effects
Glow sticks contain chemicals like dibutyl phthalate, hydrogen peroxide, and fluorescent dyes. Though these substances have low toxicity, they can cause irritation upon eye contact. This liquid can lead to a burning sensation, stinging, redness, and excessive tearing.
These symptoms are temporary and result from the chemicals’ irritant nature, not deep tissue damage. Discomfort resolves once the eye is adequately flushed. Serious or permanent injury from glow stick liquid in the eye is rare.
When Professional Medical Attention is Needed
While most eye exposures to glow stick liquid can be managed with thorough flushing, certain symptoms indicate a need for professional medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if you experience persistent pain, blurred vision, or any change in your sight after flushing the eye. Continued redness, irritation, or light sensitivity that does not improve within a few hours or a day also requires medical attention.
If there is swelling around the eye, discharge, or if you suspect a chemical burn, seek immediate medical consultation. These signs suggest significant irritation or a complication requiring specific treatment. Consult a healthcare professional if you have lingering concerns or if symptoms worsen after initial first aid.