Chemical Eye Injury

Understanding Chemical Eye Injuries

A chemical eye injury is a critical ocular emergency that occurs when liquid, powder, vapor, or mist splashes into the eye. The extent of damage depends on the chemical type, its pH level, concentration, temperature, and duration of contact. Both acidic and alkaline substances can cause rapid damage to the cornea, conjunctiva, and internal eye structures.

Alkali substances (such as drain cleaners, bleach, lye, and wet cement) are particularly hazardous because they saponify fatty acids in cell membranes, penetrating deep into corneal tissues and the anterior chamber within seconds. Acidic substances (such as car battery acid or descalers) cause protein coagulation, which forms a partial barrier, but high concentrations still cause extensive surface burns and corneal opacification.

Priority Actions During Chemical Exposure

• Flush the affected eye immediately with clean water or sterile saline for at least 15 minutes
• Hold eyelids wide open to ensure irrigating fluid reaches beneath the lids
• Remove contact lenses promptly if they do not require forceful manipulation
• Transport immediately to an eye clinic or emergency department while continuing irrigation