If a chemical splashes in the eyes, it may cause pain, redness, itching, and swelling of the eyes, changes in vision, sensitivity to light, or an eye infection. Sometimes it can damage the eyes.
Your child had a chemical splash in their eyes. Your health care provider irrigated (washed very thoroughly) your child's eyes. They may have done testing to see if the eyes were damaged.
You can now care for your child at home. This is a good time to review how to keep your child safe from chemicals splashing in the eye.
Follow your health care provider's instructions for:
- Using any medicines, eye ointments, or eye drops
- Any activities your child should avoid, such as being around bright lights; using screens, such as smartphones, computers, tablets, or TVs; or other activities that could strain the eyes
- Whether your child needs to wear sunglasses when outside or in bright light
- When your child can return to activities like school and sports
- Whether it's OK to give acetaminophen (Tylenol® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand). Follow the package directions for how much to give and how often. Don't give ibuprofen to babies under 6 months old.
- Whether to use a cold compress to soothe the eyes
- When to follow up
Other tips:
- Wash your hands before using any eye medicine or caring for your child's eyes.
- Remind your child not to rub or touch their eyes.
Your child has a sudden change in vision or can't see.
How can families protect kids from chemicals splashing in the eye at home? To protect kids:
- Store all solid, liquid, powder, and aerosol chemicals high out of children's reach and/or in a locked cabinet. This includes cleaning supplies, detergents, bleach, ammonia, hair sprays, cosmetics, pesticides, fertilizers, lye, concrete, and mortar.
- Don't use chemicals when children are nearby.
- Be sure they wear safety glasses when working with any chemicals.
If your child gets a chemical in their eyes, immediately start rinsing the eyes with cool water and call Poison Control at 800-222-1222. Keep the number posted in your home (for example, on the refrigerator) and put it in your phone contacts.
