Eyes are one of the most delicate parts of the body and probably the most exposed. Eye injuries are often the result of a blow, foreign object and chemicals. Common symptoms for an eye injury include redness, pain, swelling, bleeding, sensitivity to light, and discoloration around the eyes. Accidents happen and it is important to know how to handle them. Chemical exposure can cause vision impairment if not treated in the correct way.
First Aid for Chemicals in Eyes
First and foremost, all contact lens wearers should remember to remove their lenses immediately or else the chemicals will remain seated against the cornea and cause both pain and damage. For chemical exposure follow the first aid tips listed below:
- Splash water in your eyes for at least 15-20 continuous minutes (try keeping your eyes open while doing so)
- Do not let water enter the unaffected eye while flushing the affected eye
- Do not wear an eye cup
- Remove lens
- Do not rub your eyes
- Avoid covering or bandaging the affected eye/s
- Keep the affected person still and monitor his or her breathing and observe for shock
- Call 911 or rush to an emergency room (carry a sample of the chemicals your eyes got exposed to if possible)
Knowing what to do for an eye injury can save both, time and vision.