| Chemical Injuries
|
Chemical injuries
Various chemicals are injurious to the eye because they contain acids or
alkalis. Lab chemicals, bathroom cleaners, even lime (choon, a waek alkali) are
potentially dangerous. Other toxic materials are holi colours and some plant
juices (alkaloids). Chemical burns cause damage to the surface lining of the eye
and alkalis also penetrate the eye to cause damage within. Damage to the eye
surface is a sight threatening condition if not treated in time. Delicate cells
which are responsible for healing the eye surface after an injury can also die
in chemical injuries, leading to permanent damage to the eye. In case of fall of
any chemicals in the eye, the eyes must be washed immediately with plenty of
clean water. This removes the chemical from the eye surface and reduces the
damage. Sterile Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) or Ringer’s Lactate is the
best solution for an eye wash and is usually available in the school infirmary.
Otherwise, clean drinking water is also safe. One should not waste time
searching for saline , because the sooner the chemicals are washed off the
better. Wash the eyes gently with at least 500ml of fluid over 15 to 20 minutes.
Then move the child to eye specialist or hospital with eye emergency facilities
Injuries | Blunt Injuries |
Penetrating Injuries |
Chemical Injuries |
Foreign
Bodies
|