SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/weld-arc-eye-onset

Welder's flash, or arc eye, usually causes symptoms how long after the UV exposure?

Usually 6 to 12 hours later.

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  1. Instantly, during the flash
  2. About 6 to 12 hours later ✔
  3. Two to three days later

Why: You may feel fine right after the flash. Pain, a gritty feeling and tearing usually show up hours later, often waking people in the night.

Huh, didn't know that: The condition goes by many names: photokeratitis, snow blindness, arc eye and welder's flash.

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Doctor, Doctor, I think I'm a moth. Get out of my light!
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References

Answer: About 6 to 12 hours later. You may feel fine right after the flash. Pain, a gritty feeling and tearing usually show up hours later, often waking people in the night.

  1. University of Iowa EyeRounds, Ultraviolet Keratitis webeye.ophth.uiowa.edu/eyeforum/cases/306-ultraviolet-keratitis.htm
    Symptoms of UV keratitis usually present 6-12 hours after UV exposure.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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