Corneal flash burns are essentially photokeratitis from intense UV exposure, commonly in welders or from sun lamps and snow reflection. They cause temporary but often severe pain.
Symptoms and causes
Discomfort usually starts several hours after exposure.
- Sharp pain, tearing, redness, and eyelid spasm
- Blurred vision and marked light sensitivity
- History of welding without proper shield or high-altitude sun/snow exposure
- Punctate epithelial defects on fluorescein staining
Treatment
The cornea typically heals within 24-72 hours.
- Lubricating drops or ointment plus oral analgesia
- Short course of prophylactic antibiotic drops in some cases
- Avoidance of contact lenses until complete healing
- Education about using appropriate eye protection in future
