Chemical eye burns occur when harmful substances, like acids or alkalis, come into contact with your eyes. The severity of the burn depends on the type of chemical, how much was involved, and how long it stayed in your eyes before being washed out.
If you recently experience symptoms of chemical eye burns, visit us at Doral Health and Wellness Ophthalmology Center. We have the best eye doctor in Brooklyn. Contact us at Doral Health and Wellness Ophthalmology Center to schedule an appointment.
Types of Chemical Eye Burns
- Acid Burns – Acids (such as sulfuric acid in batteries) cause damage but often result in less severe injuries because they don’t penetrate your eye as deeply.
- Alkali Burns – Alkalis (such as ammonia or cleaning products) are more dangerous because they penetrate your eye deeper and can cause more extensive damage to your eye’s structures.
- Irritants – These are the substances that have a neutral pH. When you are exposed to irritants, they tend to cause discomfort than eye damage. Most detergents found in a household fall into this category .
Recognizing the symptoms of chemical eye burns is important for quick treatment. Common signs can include:
- Severe pain or burning sensation in your eye.
- Redness or swelling of your eye or eyelids.
- Blurred vision or difficulty seeing.
- Excessive tearing or watering of your eyes.
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
- Feeling like there’s something in your eye (grittiness).
- Discoloration of the eye (whiteness in severe cases).
If you experience any of these symptoms after exposure to chemicals, it’s important to rinse your eyes immediately with water and seek emergency medical attention.
Immediate Steps After Chemical Exposure
- Rinse your eyes immediately with clean water or saline solution. Continue flushing for at least 15-30 minutes.
- Keep your eye open during rinsing to ensure the chemical is thoroughly washed out.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can worsen the injury.
- Remove any contact lenses carefully if possible.
- Seek emergency medical care immediately.
Long-Term Complications
If left untreated or not addressed quickly, chemical burns can lead to:
- Scarring of the cornea, which can impair your vision.
- Chronic pain or discomfort.
- In severe cases, you may have partial or total vision loss.
Getting professional medical help promptly increases your chances of minimizing long-term damage. Regular follow-ups may be necessary to monitor healing.
At Doral Health and Wellness Ophthalmology Center, our eye care doctors can help you with eye burn treatments. To schedule an appointment, please call us at 1-347-384-5690 or visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212. You can also visit our website at https://www.ophthalmologybrooklyn.com.
