Hydrogen Peroxide in Eyes: What to Do and When to Seek Help

Q: Hydrogen Peroxide in Eyes: What to Do and When to Seek Help

Hello： If you rinse it off promptly, the damage should be minimal. <br>You can use the previous medication as a temporary measure; if the symptoms improve, you can monitor yourself. <br>However, if the discomfort persists, you should seek medical attention quickly.

Hydrogen peroxide exposure to the eyes?

Hello Doctor, I just started using AO solution to clean my contact lenses yesterday.
This morning, when I put them on, my left eye might still have some residue, and it felt a bit gritty and stinging.
So, I took them out and rinsed them with the solution before putting them back in (I know this was a mistake).
My eye instantly became very painful, red, and watery.
I quickly used artificial tears and saline solution.
After searching online, I’m a bit worried about the possibility of corneal burns.
After rinsing, my eye is no longer red or painful, but there are fine blood vessels, a dry sensation, and sensitivity.
I would like to ask if I can use my previous prescription eye drops for conjunctivitis, and whether I still need to see an ophthalmologist.
Thank you for your response!

quan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/28

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: If you rinse it off promptly, the damage should be minimal.
You can use the previous medication as a temporary measure; if the symptoms improve, you can monitor yourself.
However, if the discomfort persists, you should seek medical attention quickly.

Reply Date: 2022/06/28

More Info

If you have accidentally introduced hydrogen peroxide into your eyes, it is crucial to take immediate action to minimize potential damage. Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent that can cause irritation, redness, and even chemical burns to the delicate tissues of the eye, particularly the cornea. Here’s what you should do and when to seek professional help.

Immediate Steps to Take
1. Rinse Your Eyes: The first and most important step is to rinse your eyes thoroughly with saline solution or clean water. You should do this for at least 15-20 minutes to help flush out any remaining hydrogen peroxide. If you have access to an eye wash station, that would be ideal.

2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can exacerbate irritation and potentially cause further damage. Try to keep your hands away from your eyes after rinsing.

3. Use Artificial Tears: After rinsing, using artificial tears can help soothe the eyes and provide moisture. This can alleviate some of the dryness and discomfort you may be experiencing.

4. Monitor Symptoms: After rinsing, keep an eye on your symptoms. If the pain, redness, or irritation persists, or if you notice any changes in your vision, it is essential to seek medical attention.

When to Seek Help
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain does not subside after rinsing your eyes, it could indicate a more serious injury.

- Vision Changes: Any blurriness, double vision, or loss of vision should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

- Severe Redness or Swelling: If your eyes remain red or swollen after rinsing, it may be a sign of a more severe reaction.

- Discharge: If you notice any unusual discharge from your eyes, this could indicate an infection or other complications.

Follow-Up Care
If you have previously been prescribed medication for conjunctivitis (pink eye) and are considering using it, consult with a healthcare professional first. While some medications may help with irritation, they may not be appropriate for chemical exposure. It’s best to have a doctor evaluate your eyes to determine the appropriate treatment.

Conclusion
In summary, if you suspect that hydrogen peroxide has come into contact with your eyes, immediate rinsing is crucial. Monitor your symptoms closely, and do not hesitate to seek medical help if you experience persistent pain, vision changes, or other concerning symptoms. Eye injuries can have serious consequences, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your vision. Remember, your eyes are sensitive and require prompt and appropriate care to prevent lasting damage.

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