Glow sticks provide vibrant, temporary light. While generally considered safe, these flexible plastic tubes contain chemicals that, if the casing breaks, can expose individuals to their liquid contents. Accidental exposure, particularly to the eyes, is a common concern. Prompt action minimizes irritation and ensures eye safety.
Immediate Steps for Eye Exposure
Should glow stick liquid come into contact with the eye, immediate and thorough flushing is the first step. Begin by holding the affected eye open under a gentle stream of clean, lukewarm water. This can be done effectively using a faucet, a clean cup, or even a shower. Angle the water so it flows from the inner corner of the eye towards the outer corner, helping to wash the substance away from the tear duct and nose.
Continue flushing the eye for at least 15 to 20 minutes. During this process, it is helpful to blink frequently if possible, as this aids in distributing the water across the eye’s surface and helps dislodge any remaining particles. If you are assisting someone else, gently hold their eyelids open to ensure continuous irrigation. After the initial flushing, carefully remove contact lenses if worn, and then resume flushing for the remainder of the recommended time.
Understanding Glow Stick Ingredients
Glow sticks produce light through a chemical reaction known as chemiluminescence, involving ingredients typically sealed within separate compartments. One common component is hydrogen peroxide, usually in a diluted concentration, which acts as an activator. Another primary chemical is a phenyl oxalate ester, often referred to as a “fluorescent ester,” such as bis(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl) oxalate (TCPO) or similar compounds. These two chemicals are kept separate until the glow stick is bent, breaking an inner vial and allowing them to mix.
The mixture of hydrogen peroxide and the oxalate ester reacts to create an unstable intermediate that transfers energy to a fluorescent dye. This dye, which gives the glow stick its specific color, then releases this energy as visible light. Common fluorescent dyes include rubrene for yellow, 9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene (BPEA) for green, and 1-chloro-9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene (CPEA) for blue. While these chemicals are generally low in toxicity, they can cause significant irritation upon contact with sensitive tissues like the eye.
When to Get Professional Medical Help
Even after thoroughly flushing the eye, it is important to monitor for any persistent symptoms that indicate a need for medical attention. Seek an immediate evaluation by an eye care professional or visit an emergency room if symptoms such as continued pain, persistent redness, or blurred vision develop. Other concerning signs include swelling around the eye, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), or a feeling that something is still present in the eye despite flushing.
Bringing the glow stick packaging or the glow stick itself to the medical appointment can provide valuable information to the healthcare provider regarding the specific chemicals involved. A medical professional can further irrigate the eye, perform a thorough examination to assess for any damage to the cornea or other structures, and prescribe medicated eye drops to manage inflammation or prevent infection. Prompt medical assessment ensures any potential complications are addressed swiftly.