Chemical and thermal eye burns are emergencies, and rapid first aid can make a major difference to the final outcome. Always seek urgent medical care after any significant burn.
Immediate First Aid
Start rinsing the eye as soon as possible.
- Hold the eyelids open and irrigate continuously with clean water or saline for at least 15-20 minutes, ideally longer for strong chemicals.
- Remove contact lenses during irrigation if they are present and can be safely removed.
- Avoid trying to neutralise the chemical with another chemical; copious dilution is safest.
- After thorough rinsing, cover the eye lightly and go straight to emergency or eye casualty services.
Ongoing Management
Specialist treatment aims to limit damage and support healing.
- Doctors may use drops, ointments, pain relief, and sometimes bandage contact lenses or amniotic membrane grafts.
- Follow instructions closely on medications, activity restrictions, and follow‑up visits.
- Severe burns may need long‑term care for scarring, dry eye, glaucoma, or corneal transplantation.
- Use appropriate eye protection at work and when handling chemicals or hot liquids to prevent future injuries.
