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Heat injury to the eye

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By Jan Nissl, RN, BS

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Heat (thermal) injuries to the eye include:

  • Exposure to steam or hot liquid.
  • Flash or flame burns from a fire or explosion.
  • Electric hair curlers or dryers.
  • Cigarette burns.

Eye pain or decreased or blurred vision may occur immediately. Discuss your symptoms with your health professional.

Burns to the eyelids usually don't involve the eyeball because of the blink reflex. The blink reflex protects the eyeball. If the eyes are tightly closed, the edges of the eyelids may also be protected. If you have burns to the eyelids, see the topic Sunburn or Burns.

Credits

Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
Last Updated December 6, 2007
Last Updated: 12/06/2007

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