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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/weld-arc-eye-no-anesthetic

Which should never be used to treat welder's flash because it can delay healing?

Topical anesthetic eye drops.

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  1. Preservative-free lubricating drops
  2. Avoiding more bright light
  3. Numbing (topical anesthetic) eye drops ✔

Why: Numbing drops feel great but can slow or stop healing of the cornea. See an eye doctor for arc eye instead of reaching for drops.

Huh, didn't know that: Electric welding arcs give off the full range of UV, plus infrared and visible light.

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References

Answer: Numbing (topical anesthetic) eye drops. Numbing drops feel great but can slow or stop healing of the cornea. See an eye doctor for arc eye instead of reaching for drops.

  1. University of Iowa EyeRounds, Ultraviolet Keratitis webeye.ophth.uiowa.edu/eyeforum/cases/306-ultraviolet-keratitis.htm
    topical anesthetics should never be used as they may delay or prevent healing
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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