Getting gasoline in your eyes is a serious chemical exposure. Gasoline contains hydrocarbons and additives, making it an irritant that can cause adverse effects upon contact with the eye. Knowing the proper steps can help mitigate harm and preserve eye health.
Immediate Effects on Your Eyes
When gasoline splashes into your eyes, you will likely experience an immediate burning sensation, sharp pain, and stinging. Your eyes will become red, and you may notice excessive tearing. Blurred vision is a common symptom, and increased sensitivity to light also occurs, making it uncomfortable to keep your eyes open.
Crucial First Aid Steps
If gasoline gets into your eyes, immediately flush them thoroughly with water. Begin by washing your hands if they have come into contact with gasoline to prevent further contamination. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before or during the flushing process. Do not rub your eyes, as this can worsen irritation or cause additional damage.
To effectively flush the eye, use a gentle stream of lukewarm water from a clean source, such as a jug, teapot, or even a shower. Position your head so the water flows from the inner corner of your eye (near your nose) across the eye and out towards your ear. You can also submerge your eye in a bowl of lukewarm water, opening and closing your eye repeatedly to ensure thorough irrigation. Continue flushing for at least 15 to 20 minutes to wash away as much of the gasoline as possible. Blinking frequently during this process can help distribute the water and aid in removal.
Understanding the Potential Damage
Gasoline acts as a solvent, and its chemical components can damage the eye’s delicate structures. It can cause chemical burns to the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye, and the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the inside of the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye.
The solvent properties of gasoline can also strip away the natural protective tear film and potentially remove the corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of the cornea. This can lead to corneal abrasions or ulcerations, creating open sores on the eye’s surface. In severe cases, inflammation may occur, and without timely treatment, there is a risk of vision impairment or permanent damage to the eye.
When Professional Medical Care is Necessary
Even after thorough flushing, professional medical attention is necessary to assess the extent of the damage and prevent complications. Seek immediate medical care if you experience persistent pain, continued blurred vision, ongoing redness or irritation, or any discharge from the eye after flushing.
Contacting a poison control center is also advisable for further treatment advice immediately after initial flushing. An ophthalmologist can examine your eyes to detect any corneal damage and may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications to aid healing and prevent infection. Timely medical evaluation can help ensure the best possible outcome for your eye health.