Arc eye, medically known as photokeratitis or welder’s flash, is a painful sunburn of the cornea and conjunctiva, the transparent tissues covering the front of the eye and lining the eyelid. This condition results from unprotected exposure to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, most commonly from welding arcs, sunlamps, or reflections off bright surfaces like snow or water. The UV exposure damages the epithelial cells on the cornea’s surface, leaving underlying nerve endings exposed, which causes significant discomfort. Symptoms often do not appear immediately, instead showing up six to twelve hours after exposure. Once they begin, symptoms are unmistakable and include a severe, gritty feeling, intense pain, excessive tearing, and heightened sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Immediate Home Care Strategies
For mild cases of arc eye, the first step is to immediately remove any contact lenses and move to a dark environment. Resting the eyes by keeping them closed helps the damaged corneal cells begin their natural repair process. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen the inflammation and potentially cause further damage to the delicate corneal surface.
To manage the pain and swelling, a cold compress or a washcloth dampened with cold water can be applied gently over the closed eyelids. This localized cooling effect helps to soothe the inflammation and provide temporary relief from the burning sensation. Over-the-counter oral pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are effective in reducing the discomfort and systemic pain associated with the condition.
Using preservative-free artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can also help to alleviate the scratchy, gritty sensation by keeping the eye’s surface moist. While these drops offer comfort, they are not a cure for the underlying UV damage. Many home remedies, such as applying milk or potatoes, are not scientifically supported and should be avoided, as they could introduce infection.
Professional Medical Treatment and Warning Signs
While many cases of arc eye improve on their own, prompt medical attention is necessary if symptoms are severe, include noticeable vision changes, or fail to improve within 24 to 48 hours. Unbearable pain or the suspicion of a foreign body in the eye also warrants an immediate visit to an eye care professional. The doctor will perform an eye examination, often using a special dye and a blue light to make the corneal damage visible.
Treatment from a professional often involves supportive care aimed at pain management and infection prevention. A doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment for a few days to prevent a secondary bacterial infection. To help relax the eye muscles and alleviate the pain, cycloplegic drops may be administered, which temporarily dilate the pupil. These prescription treatments support the eye’s natural healing process.
Healing Timeframe and Protective Measures
The corneal surface has a remarkable capacity for rapid regeneration. Most individuals experience a resolution of symptoms and a complete recovery within 24 to 48 hours following the injury. During this recovery period, the most beneficial action is eye rest, minimizing exposure to bright lights, and avoiding activities like reading or screen time.
Long-term protection is achieved by consistently using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during high-risk activities. Welders must wear helmets equipped with the correct shade filter to block the UV radiation produced by the arc. For activities like skiing or being on the water, sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays are necessary to prevent reflected UV light. Certified safety goggles with UV-resistant lenses should also be used by anyone working near welding or other artificial UV sources.