How to Treat Flash Burn to the Eyes

Flash burns to the eyes are caused by overexposure to bright light such as sunlight. The eyes experience a burning sensation because of inflammation in the cornea.This injury is also known as "welder's flash" because welders are constantly exposed to bright flashes of light and heat of the welding torch, which produces this problem. Flash burns to the eyes are treatable.

Things You'll Need

• antiseptic gauze pads
• bowl
• ice
• tea bags
• anti-UV sunglasses
• hand soap
• eye patches
• sleeping mask

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Instructions

• 1

  Immediately after a flash burn, close your eyes. This allows the eyes to rest after suffering injury. Closing the eyes also keeps germs out while shielding eyes from further injury.

• 2

  Wash your hands with soap. Make sure your hands are free of bacteria when touching the eye area.

• 3

  Place ice inside a bowl. Pour cold water in the bowl. Submerge antiseptic gauze pads in the cold water. Squeeze excess water out of the gauze pads until they are damp. Place the pads onto your eyes, holding them with slight but firm pressure. Keep the pads on until they become warm. Repeat this if the pain and inflammation do not diminish. You can also use tea bags in place of gauze pads, if you choose.

• 4

  Fold two gauze pads into square shapes and place them over your eyes. Place eye patches or a sleeping mask over your eyes while they are covered with the gauze pads. This will keep the pads in place and protect your eyes as you sleep.

• 5

  Wear anti-UV sunglasses to keep out bright light and block harmful sun rays. Bright light and sun rays can further injure the eyes, slow healing, and create more pain.

• 6

  To relieve swelling and pain in the eyes, take medications that contain anti-inflammatory properties, such as aspirin, Advil, Motrin, and Aleve. These medications are available over the counter.

• 7

  If the inflammation and pain persist, or if you experience blurry vision, contact a physician immediately. These symptoms may indicate a serious eye injury that requires immediate attention from a trained physician. The doctor may give you eye drops to prevent or subside infections and relieve eye muscle strain.