Eye Injuries from Prolonged Welding Without Protection: What to Do?

Prolonged welding can cause eye damage?

My friend was welding without protective gear and directly exposed his eyes to the light for about 5 hours.
As a result, he experienced severe eye pain, was unable to open his eyes, had redness in the sclera, and excessive tearing.
Initially, ice packs were applied, but when the pain did not improve, heat packs were used, which he reported helped somewhat.
However, after about an hour, he complained that while the pain was not as intense as before, he now felt a stinging sensation in his eyes.

I would like to know how to manage such a situation to prevent further damage and what post-injury care should be taken.
Why would the eyes hurt so much? Is there a risk of blindness? Thank you for your assistance.

Hou Guiying, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/11/21

Dr. Huang Bozhen reply Ophthalmology

Prolonged exposure to bright light can cause punctate keratitis, resulting in significant eye pain.
The correct management involves applying pressure and covering both eyes, and it is best to have a doctor evaluate the condition.
Generally, recovery occurs within one to two days, and it should not lead to blindness.
Remember to wear protective eyewear next time.

Reply Date: 2002/11/21

More Info

Eye injuries resulting from prolonged exposure to welding light, commonly known as "arc eye" or photokeratitis, can be quite serious and require immediate attention. When someone is exposed to intense ultraviolet (UV) light without proper eye protection, it can lead to inflammation of the cornea, resulting in severe pain, redness, tearing, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to manage such injuries and promote healing.

Immediate First Aid Steps
1. Avoid Further Exposure: The first step is to ensure that the affected individual is removed from the source of UV light immediately. This prevents further damage to the eyes.

2. Do Not Rub the Eyes: Rubbing the eyes can exacerbate the injury and lead to further irritation or damage. It’s essential to keep the hands away from the eyes.

3. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Use a clean cloth soaked in cold water and gently place it over the closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes. This can provide temporary relief from discomfort.

4. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help lubricate the eyes and provide relief from dryness and irritation. Avoid using any eye drops that contain preservatives, as they may further irritate the eyes.

5. Pain Relief: If the pain is significant, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken to help manage discomfort. Always follow the recommended dosage.

6. Avoid Heat Initially: While the individual reported some relief with heat, it’s generally advisable to avoid heat application immediately after the injury, as it can exacerbate inflammation. Cold compresses are preferred initially.

When to Seek Medical Attention
It’s crucial to seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur:
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Vision changes, such as blurriness or loss of vision
- Increased redness or swelling
- Discharge from the eye
- Sensitivity to light that does not improve
An eye care professional will likely perform a thorough examination, which may include using a fluorescein stain to check for corneal abrasions or other injuries.

Long-term Care and Prevention
1. Follow-Up Care: After the initial treatment, follow-up appointments with an eye care specialist are essential to monitor healing and ensure no complications arise.

2. Protective Eyewear: To prevent future injuries, it’s vital to wear appropriate protective eyewear when welding or engaging in any activity that poses a risk of eye injury. This includes safety goggles or face shields that are specifically designed to block UV light.

3. Avoid Rubbing or Touching the Eyes: Encourage the individual to avoid touching or rubbing their eyes during the healing process to prevent further irritation or infection.

4. Stay Hydrated: Keeping the body hydrated can help maintain moisture in the eyes, which is beneficial for healing.

5. Limit Screen Time: If the individual experiences discomfort while using screens, it may be helpful to limit screen time and take regular breaks to reduce eye strain.

Potential Complications
If left untreated, severe cases of photokeratitis can lead to complications, including corneal scarring or infections, which may affect vision. In extreme cases, prolonged exposure to UV light can contribute to cataract formation or other long-term vision problems.

Conclusion
In summary, immediate first aid for eye injuries from welding should focus on removing the individual from the source of injury, applying cold compresses, and using artificial tears. Medical attention is crucial if symptoms persist or worsen. Long-term care involves protective measures to prevent future injuries and regular follow-ups with an eye care professional. By taking these steps, the risk of complications can be minimized, and the individual can work towards a full recovery.

Similar Q&A

Understanding and Treating Arc Eye: A Guide for Welders

Hello Doctor: My father has been working in the welding profession for many years, and over time, his eyes have suffered damage from the welding arc. At night, he has difficulty opening his eyes or experiences tearing. He believes this is a work-related injury and feels helpless....

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Ms. Cheng: 1. Most general ophthalmology clinics can provide treatment. 2. It is advisable for the doctor to prescribe medication for your father; sometimes, keeping the eye bandaged for a day allows the corneal epithelium to regenerate, which can alleviate the symptoms.

Managing Corneal Abrasion and Dry Eyes After LASIK Surgery

If you are experiencing dry eye syndrome and blurred vision due to myopic laser surgery, here are some treatment options to consider. Since it has been a month and your vision remains blurry, it is important to consult with an ophthalmologist for a thorough evaluation. 1. Arti...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Chen: 1. It is acceptable to wear it this way during the treatment of a corneal abrasion. 2. It is best to have a physician remove it for you. Moisten it first before removal to minimize damage to the cornea. 3. Since it needs to be worn continuously, you can apply the eye ...

Impact of Bright Lights and Sun Exposure on Eye Health

1. If you looked at a glowing incandescent bulb at a distance of about 20 to 30 cm for five to ten minutes without wearing glasses, it is unlikely to cause any significant damage or permanent harm to your eyes from just that one instance. However, prolonged exposure to bright lig...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, try to avoid direct exposure to bright light sources. Based on your description, it should not cause any harm.

Eye Injury from a Punch: Understanding Risks and Recovery Steps

Hello, doctor. Today at work, I was hit in the left eye with a fist, and immediately there were a lot of blood vessels visible, accompanied by pain. After resting for ten minutes, the blood vessels slowly receded, and moving my eye doesn't hurt, but there is still a bit of a...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. Hong: If you are experiencing increasingly blurred vision, you should seek medical attention immediately. If the situation does not improve and you are still concerned, you may also consider getting examined at a major hospital. Currently, you should pay attention to an...