Chemical eye injuries can happen from something as simple as cleaning around the house. Chemicals from cleaning products, garden chemicals, and industrial chemicals can accidentally get in your eyes.
It’s important to be careful when handling alkaline products such as drain cleaners, sodium hydroxide, and lye, as they can cause severe damage if they come in contact with your eyes.
If you get chemicals in your eyes, the following steps are recommended:
- Wash your hands with soap and cool water thoroughly.
- Turn your head, so the affected eye is down and to the side.
- Hold the affected eyelid open and flush it out with clean tap water for 15 minutes.
A chemical eye injury is serious and can cause severe damage—it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.