The injury commonly known as “welder’s flash” or “arc eye” is medically termed photokeratitis, which is a temporary inflammation of the cornea. This painful condition occurs when the clear, outermost layer of the eye is exposed to intense ultraviolet (UV) light, such as that emitted by a welding arc, sunlamps, or high-altitude snow glare. The UV radiation damages the corneal epithelium, causing symptoms that typically do not begin immediately. Signs usually appear several hours after exposure, often within 6 to 12 hours. Common signs include a gritty sensation, excessive tearing, redness, and sensitivity to light.
Immediate Relief and At-Home Care
Once symptoms of photokeratitis begin, the primary goal is to manage discomfort while the corneal cells naturally heal. Move into a dark or dimly lit room to minimize light sensitivity, which is a significant source of pain. Keeping the eyes closed and resting them reduces irritation and encourages healing.
Applying a cold compress or a clean, chilled washcloth over the closed eyelids can help reduce swelling and provide soothing relief from the burning sensation. Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can cause further damage to the compromised corneal surface. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be taken orally to help manage the pain and headache that often accompany the eye discomfort.
Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) to combat dry eyes and the gritty sensation. These drops help moisten the eye’s surface and ease the friction caused by blinking. Do not use eye drops marketed to “get the red out,” as these drops contain vasoconstrictors that can sometimes worsen irritation upon wearing off. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately to prevent further irritation and potential trapping of bacteria beneath the lens.
Warning Signs Requiring Professional Care
While photokeratitis usually resolves on its own, certain symptoms require professional medical evaluation. Seek care if the pain is severe and unmanageable, persisting even after using over-the-counter pain medication. Any noticeable change in vision, such as blurriness, the appearance of halos around lights, or temporary loss of sight, warrants an immediate visit to an eye care specialist.
If symptoms, including pain and irritation, last longer than 24 to 48 hours, it suggests the corneal damage is significant or a secondary issue is developing. Signs of a possible secondary infection, such as thick discharge, extreme swelling of the eyelids, or fever, also require prompt medical attention. A doctor will examine the eye using a slit lamp microscope and may apply fluorescein dye to highlight the extent of the corneal damage.
In cases of significant epithelial damage, a physician may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments to prevent a bacterial infection. They might also apply a therapeutic soft contact lens or patch the eye to reduce pain and promote faster healing of the cornea. Professional care ensures accurate diagnosis, rules out other serious injuries, and promotes full recovery.
Essential Prevention Techniques
Preventing photokeratitis relies on the meticulous use of appropriate protective equipment, as the injury is avoidable. A welding helmet must be worn correctly, covering the entire face and neck to shield the eyes from intense UV and infrared (IR) radiation. The helmet’s filter lens is the primary defense, and it must be selected based on the specific welding process and the amperage being used.
The darkness of the filter lens, indicated by a numbered shade, must be appropriate for the intensity of the light arc. Higher amperage processes require a darker shade (e.g., Shade 12 or 14), while lower-amperage tasks might use a Shade 8 or 10. These shade recommendations ensure the lens filters out harmful radiation to a safe level while still allowing the welder to see the work.
Before each use, inspect all protective equipment for cracks, scratches, or light leaks around the edges of the helmet or lens. Even a small gap can expose the eyes to enough UV radiation to cause a flash burn. Auto-darkening helmets must be checked to ensure they function properly and darken instantaneously upon arc ignition, providing continuous protection.