A 25-year-old female asked about a 22-year-old male:
My husband is a pipe welder, he burned his eyes last night at work and when he woke up this morning his eyes are red and his eyes lids are swollen?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Michael Hamanswered
Ophthalmology 28 years experience
Keratitis: He has uv exposure keratitis, especially if both eyes are affected. This is a condition where the epithelium (skin layer of the cornea) is damaged by the exposure to uv light from welding. When sleeping a portion of the epithelium will slough (fall off due to the layer being damaged), leaving like a large corneal abrasion. May take 3-7 days to recover. See an eye md.
5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Jon Fishburnanswered
Ophthalmology 31 years experience
Flash burn?: He probably had a flash burn den the welding arc resulting in a ultraviolet induced keratitis (cornea inflammation). Currently i rec copious lubrication using lacrilube (artificial tears) or genteal gel. Occasionally i prescribe ketorolac ophthalmic drops but often not necessary. Pain medicine like Ibuprofen is fine to take. If he is really bothered, an exam by an eye md is necessary. A dilating drop may be prescrib.
5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 25, 2014
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.