Flash burn, medically known as photokeratitis, is a painful eye condition caused by intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Similar to a sunburn, it affects the eyes, specifically the cornea and conjunctiva. While various sources can cause photokeratitis, it is frequently associated with welding activities performed without adequate eye protection, often called “welder’s flash” or “arc eye.” This condition can cause significant discomfort and temporary vision disturbances.
Understanding Flash Burn
Photokeratitis occurs when intense UV radiation damages the corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of the eye’s clear front surface. UV rays, especially from electric arc welding, are absorbed by the cornea, leading to a photochemical injury. This damage causes corneal cells to slough off, exposing nerve endings and causing pain.
Symptoms typically manifest several hours after exposure, often between 3 to 12 hours, which can make it challenging to immediately connect the symptoms to the exposure event. Common signs include intense eye pain, a gritty or foreign body sensation, excessive tearing, and redness. Individuals may also experience heightened sensitivity to light (photophobia), blurry vision, or eyelid spasms.
Immediate Relief Measures
When experiencing flash burn, immediate steps can help alleviate discomfort. Resting the eyes in a dark environment is beneficial due to light sensitivity. Applying cool compresses to the eyelids can provide relief and help reduce inflammation.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage the pain. Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can irritate the damaged corneal surface and introduce infection. If contact lenses are worn, remove them promptly to prevent complications and allow the eyes to heal. These measures focus on providing comfort and supporting the eye’s natural healing process.
When to Seek Professional Care
While flash burn often resolves within 24 to 72 hours, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. Severe or worsening pain that does not improve with home care warrants an immediate visit to an eye doctor or emergency room. Any changes in vision, such as persistent blurriness or a significant decrease in clarity, should also be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Signs of a possible eye infection, such as pus-like discharge, spreading redness, or increased swelling, require prompt medical assessment. If symptoms persist beyond 24 to 48 hours despite home treatment, seek medical advice. A doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops to prevent secondary infections or use cycloplegic agents for severe pain relief, though patching the eye is generally not recommended.
Preventing Flash Burn
Preventing flash burn is important through the consistent use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). When welding, always wear a welding helmet equipped with the correct filter shade to block harmful UV radiation. The specific shade number depends on the welding process and current used, ensuring adequate eye protection.
Beyond the welding helmet, wear safety glasses with side shields underneath for additional protection, especially when the helmet is lifted. Regularly inspect welding equipment for damage, such as cracks in lenses or faulty auto-darkening features, to maintain its protective integrity. It is also important to ensure that bystanders in the vicinity of welding operations are protected from stray UV light, as reflected radiation can also cause flash burn.