Eye exposure to chemical irritants, bright light, or impact devices can cause a wide range of injuries. Prompt and appropriate care is essential to reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Tear Gas in the Eyes
Despite its name, tear gas is not actually a gas. It is an aerosol composed of solid particles that can come into contact with the surface of the eye.
It is not entirely clear whether tear gas particles penetrate the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). However, corneal injuries can occur, including:
- Corneal abrasions
- Corneal ulcers
More severe injuries may result when tear gas is deployed as a projectile, which can:
Exposure effects can be worse in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces, such as indoors, where particles may remain concentrated.
Immediate Eye Care
The most important step is: Rinse the eyes with clean water or sterile saline for 15–20 minutes.
Additional steps include:
- Avoid rubbing the eyes
- Remove contact lenses
- Remove contaminated clothing and place it in a sealed bag to reduce further exposure
Healthcare workers assisting exposed individuals should wear gloves to minimize secondary exposure.
An eye care provider may instill a topical anesthetic to allow for a thorough eye examination if pain or eyelid spasm interferes with evaluation.
Pepper Spray
Pepper spray causes intense burning, tearing, and irritation of the eyes and surrounding skin. While symptoms are often temporary, significant discomfort and surface injury can occur.
As with tear gas, if you get pepper spray in your eyes:
- Immediate and prolonged eye irrigation with water or saline is critical
- Avoid home remedies or oily substances
- Seek professional care if pain or vision changes persist
Flash Bang Devices
Flash bangs emit a sudden, intense burst of bright light, which can temporarily overwhelm the visual system. Effects may include:
- Temporary vision loss
- Afterimages or visual spots
- Eye discomfort
In some cases, flash bang devices can fragment or break apart, which may result in direct eye trauma from debris. An eye care professional should evaluate any persistent visual symptoms or eye pain after exposure.
Rubber Bullets and Bean Bag Rounds
Rubber bullets and bean bag rounds can cause severe eye injuries, particularly with direct impact. Reported injuries include:
- Globe rupture
- Retinal damage
- Cataracts
- Permanent vision loss
Shatterproof or protective goggles may offer some protection, but they are not guaranteed to prevent injury from high-impact projectiles. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has publicly stated that these types of munitions pose a serious risk to vision.
When to Seek Care
If you experience any eye injury, including:
- Persistent pain
- Blurred or lost vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Visible injury or swelling
Contact your eye care provider immediately or seek emergency medical care. Early evaluation can make a critical difference in outcomes.
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