Unfortunately, once the eyes are damaged by welding light, particularly from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the damage is typically not reversible. However, there are treatments available to manage and alleviate the symptoms, and in many cases, the damage is temporary and heals over time. Here’s an overview of what happens when the eyes are damaged and how to treat it:
Types of Eye Damage from Welding Light
- Arc Eye (Welder’s Flash):
- This is the most common injury caused by UV exposure during welding. It results in a burn to the cornea, similar to a sunburn, which can cause redness, pain, sensitivity to light, tearing, and blurred vision. It typically occurs when a welder is exposed to the welding arc without proper protection.
- Long-Term UV Damage:
- Prolonged or repeated exposure to UV radiation can lead to cataracts, retinal damage, or macular degeneration over time. However, these issues develop slowly and are not typically associated with a single welding incident but rather cumulative exposure over years.
Treatment for Welding Eye Damage
- Rest and Avoid Further Exposure:
- Resting the eyes is one of the most important things to do after welding light exposure. Avoid any further exposure to bright lights or welding arcs while your eyes heal.
- Artificial Tears:
- To relieve dryness and discomfort, using artificial tear drops can help soothe the eyes. These drops hydrate the corneal surface and reduce irritation caused by the burn.
- Cold Compress:
- Applying a cold compress (a clean cloth with cold water) over your closed eyelids can help alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and comfort the eyes.
- Pain Relief:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation caused by the eye burn.
- Antibiotic ointments or eye drops may be prescribed by a doctor to prevent or treat secondary infections if the cornea is scratched.
- Consult an Eye Specialist:
- If symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience severe vision changes, it is important to see an eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist). They can assess the damage and recommend specific treatments, such as medicated drops or ointments to promote healing.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes:
- It can be tempting to rub your eyes when they are irritated, but doing so can cause further damage, especially if there are any abrasions to the cornea. Instead, use lubricating eye drops or consult with a doctor.
- Healing Time:
- For most people, arc eye will heal within 24 to 48 hours. However, symptoms such as sensitivity to light may persist for a few days, and the discomfort typically fades gradually. If vision doesn’t improve or worsens, seek medical attention.
Long-Term Prevention of Further Damage
- Protective Gear: The best way to avoid damage from welding light is to always wear proper welding helmets with UV/IR protection and protective eyewear. These should be in place before starting any welding job and should be worn throughout the entire process, even when working in areas where the arc light may reflect off surfaces.
- Sunglasses or Special Goggles: When working near welding operations, it’s essential to wear UV-blocking sunglasses or safety goggles to protect the eyes from reflected light.
In Summary
While arc eye and other short-term eye burns caused by welding light usually heal on their own within a few days, the damage done is not reversible. Quick treatment can help reduce symptoms and accelerate recovery, but long-term UV damage from repeated exposure can result in chronic eye conditions, such as cataracts or retinal issues. Taking proper precautions—like wearing high-quality welding helmets and eye protection—is essential to prevent future damage and preserve eye health. If the symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult an eye specialist.