---
title: Photokeratitis
description: "Photokeratitis is a painful sunburn of the corneal epithelium caused by intense UV exposure. It is also known as \"snow blindness\" or \"welder's flash\". ## Symptoms and causes Symptoms typically appear several hours after exposure. - Severe eye pain, redness,…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/photokeratitis/"
updated: "2025-12-16"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Photokeratitis

Photokeratitis is a painful sunburn of the corneal epithelium caused by intense UV exposure. It is also known as "snow blindness" or "welder's flash".

## Symptoms and causes

Symptoms typically appear several hours after exposure.

- Severe eye pain, redness, tearing, and eyelid swelling
- Blurred vision and marked light sensitivity
- Caused by reflection from snow, water, sand, or unprotected arc welding
- Multiple punctate epithelial defects visible on fluorescein staining

## Treatment

The condition is usually self-limiting as the cornea heals.

- Lubricating drops or ointment and oral pain relief
- Short-term antibiotic drops if surface disruption is significant
- Avoidance of contact lenses until fully healed
- Prevention with proper UV-blocking eyewear and welding shields