Flash burn, often referred to as welder’s flash or arc eye, is a painful eye condition caused by exposure to intense ultraviolet (UV) Flash Burn. It is commonly associated with welding, laser work, and other activities involving high-intensity light sources. While it may seem minor at first, flash burn can cause significant discomfort and, if recurrent, may lead to long-term eye damage.
What Causes Flash Burn?
Flash burn occurs when the cornea—the transparent front layer of the eye—is exposed to excessive UV radiation. Common sources include:
- Arc welding without proper eye protection
- Laser cutting or engraving
- Exposure to sunlight reflected off snow or water
- Working with high-intensity lamps or UV lights
The condition is essentially a UV-induced corneal burn, similar to how skin can get sunburned from overexposure to sunlight.
Symptoms of Flash Burn
Symptoms usually appear within a few hours after exposure and can include:
- Redness of the eyes
- Pain or a gritty, sand-like sensation
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Excessive tearing
- Blurred vision or temporary vision impairment
These symptoms often resolve within 24–48 hours, but immediate care is essential to prevent complications.
Treatment for Flash Burn
Treatment focuses on relieving discomfort and protecting the cornea while it heals. Recommended measures include:
- Resting the eyes in a dark or dimly lit environment
- Using lubricating eye drops to soothe dryness
- Applying a cold compress to reduce inflammation
- Avoiding rubbing the eyes, which can worsen damage
- Using antibiotic ointments in severe cases to prevent infection (as prescribed by a doctor)
In most cases, the cornea heals quickly because it regenerates rapidly. Severe or repeated exposure may require medical intervention.
Preventing Flash Burn
Prevention is key, especially for professionals working with high-intensity light sources. Effective measures include:
- Wearing welding helmets or goggles with appropriate UV filters
- Using protective face shields when working with lasers or UV lamps
- Avoiding direct or reflected sunlight exposure without sunglasses that block UV rays
- Educating workers on the risks and symptoms of flash burn
By taking these precautions, the risk of flash burn can be significantly minimized.
When to See a Doctor
While mild cases of flash burn resolve on their own, medical attention should be sought if:
- Pain is severe or persistent
- Vision is significantly impaired
- Symptoms do not improve within 48 hours
- There is recurrent exposure or repeated flashes
Ophthalmologists can perform examinations and prescribe treatment to prevent long-term damage.
Conclusion
Flash burn is a preventable eye injury that can cause temporary discomfort and vision problems. Understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms, and using proper protective equipment are crucial for anyone working with welding, lasers, or UV light. With proper care and precaution, flash burn can be treated effectively, and future risks minimized.