Arc eye is a painful condition caused by UV radiation, often from welding. Symptoms include blurred vision and eye pain. Mild cases can be treated with eye drops and ointment, but serious injuries require emergency care. Prevention includes wearing eye protection and avoiding UV exposure.
Arc eye is a condition in which the outer layer of the eye is damaged due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The condition gets its name from one of the most common causes of corneal burns: exposure to the bright electric arc created when welding metals. Arc eye can lead to pain and severely blurred vision. When burns are minor, symptoms tend to go away within a few days by rinsing the eyes with water and using over-the-counter eye drops. However, serious injuries should be evaluated in the emergency room so doctors can accurately diagnose the problem and provide the appropriate medical care.
Welders who do not wear adequate eye protection and people who are in the vicinity of a welding project are at risk of developing arc eye. The UV radiation produced during welding is intense and focusing on the arc for even a fraction of a second can lead to a corneal burn. Many other sources of UV light can also cause the condition, including lamps used in tanning beds and very bright desk lights. Also, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause burns, especially when light reflects off water or a snowy ski slope.
An individual may not notice eye pain or vision problems immediately following the injury. In most cases, symptoms develop three to six hours after exposure. The eyes typically become itchy and bloodshot, and excessive tears may be produced. Vision may be spotty or blurry, and temporary blindness is possible without treatment. Permanent vision problems are possible with long-term exposure to UV rays.
A person experiencing any possible symptoms of arc eye should splash water in their eyes to clean them and seek medical help as soon as possible. An emergency room doctor can determine the severity of the condition by performing a careful physical exam. A patient with a mild case of eye arch is usually given eye drops or a topical ointment to relieve pain and redness. Your doctor may prescribe oral anti-inflammatory medications to further ease your symptoms during your recovery.
In most cases, vision returns to normal within two to three days of the injury. If symptoms persist for several days, an individual should make an appointment with an ophthalmologist to receive a more thorough screening and diagnosis. In addition to providing assistance, the ophthalmologist can help the patient determine how to avoid eye injury in the future. Wearing adequate protection and averting your eyes when possible UV exposure is usually enough to prevent serious eye problems.
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