chemical eye burn

chemical exposure to any part of the eye or eye lid results in chemical eye burn. chemical burn represents 7 to 10 percent of eye injury. 15 % to 20 % of face burn involved at least one eye. severity of burn depend on the substance that cause it or how long the substance had expose to the eye. cornea is very top layer that often affected. The severity of the injury is related to whether the chemical is alkali or acid. Alkali chemicals are more destructive then acidic chemicals because of their ability to adhere to the eye and penetrate tissues.

Alkali- based chemicals

• Lime (cement, plaster, whitewash)

• Drain cleaners

• Lye

• Metal polishes

• Ammonia

• Oven cleaners

Acid-based chemicals

• Swimming pool acid (muriatic acid)

• Battery (sulfuric) acid

emergency care

After chemical exposure, the first step is to immediately (within seconds) begin flushing the eye with water. If the accident occurs in an industrial setting, special irrigating facilities should be available. If the injury happens at home, begin flushing the eye with water right away, call for help immediately and contact your local ophthalmologist.

First aid at home Help the patient hold his or her head over a sink Gently hold the lids apart with a cotton swab or dry cloth Pour water over the eye, making sure to rinse inside the eyelidsCall your ophthalmologist