Urgent
Rinse with water immediately for at least 15 minutes. Then contact a doctor the same day, and call 112 for corrosive substances.
First aid: do it right away
- Rinse the eye immediately with plenty of clean water from the tap, a shower or a bottle. Use whatever water is closest
- Hold the eyelids open with your fingers, even if it hurts
- Rinse for at least 15 minutes, longer for strong substances such as lime, cement, drain cleaner and dishwasher detergent
- Take out contact lenses while rinsing
- Do not rub the eye, and do not put any other liquids or drops in it
Call 112 for corrosive substances, or if the pain is severe or your vision is reduced. Bring the packaging. The Danish Poison Line gives advice around the clock on +45 82 12 12 12.
Which substances are most dangerous?
Alkaline substances such as lime, cement, drain cleaner, oven cleaner and dishwasher detergent penetrate deep into the eye and cause the most serious injuries. Acids are also dangerous, but the damage more often stays on the surface. Soap and shampoo sting but rarely cause damage.
Symptoms
- Severe stinging and pain
- A red eye, or a strikingly white eye, which can be a sign of serious injury
- Watering and difficulty opening the eye
- Blurred vision
Prevention
- Wear safety glasses when cleaning with strong products and when working with lime and cement
- Keep chemicals in their original packaging and out of reach of children
- Keep a bottle of eyewash in the workshop
What happens at our clinic?
- If you get chemicals in your eye, rinse first and then contact the out-of-hours doctor, the emergency department or 112. Do not wait for an appointment with us.
- After the emergency treatment, we can follow the healing of the eye surface with check-ups.
This text is general information and does not replace an examination. If you are unsure about your symptoms, call us.