A chemical burn can prove extremely painful and destructive to the human body. As these corrosive materials eat through skin and soft tissue in a short period of time, the area of exposure can deepen quickly. Additionally, the chemicals may continue burning through the skin until it is completely removed, making these burns difficult to stop without proper treatment. When these chemicals are introduced into sensitive tissue such as the eyes, the damage can bring about catastrophe injury.

These injuries require almost immediate treatment before they burn through the eye's vital tissue. In particular, there are two major structures that can be damaged either by chemical or physical injuries. In the case of a chemical spill or explosion, the cornea and conjunctiva may be damaged or even destroyed. These areas are generally the first parts of the eye to be affected, as they rest on the exterior. The eyelid may also become severely burnt in a serious accident.

If chemicals burn away at the cornea, the injured individual may experience a loss of vision or a severe loss of focus. The cornea is widely recognized as one of the most important parts of the eye, as plays a role in actual sight. On the other hand, the conjunctiva works to protect the eye as a sight organ. While the cornea is relatively small, the conjunctiva makes up much of the rest of the eye. Protecting from microbial infections and regularly lubricating the eye, the conjunctiva's loss can later lead to serious health problems.

To manage a chemical burn in the eye, individuals are instructed to flush out the affected eye with water or saline solution. If any of the chemicals are left in the eye, they may continue to eat through the tissue, causing severe damage within a matter of minutes.

If you have been injured in a chemical explosion or other major accident, there may be legal action available. To learn more, contact the Houston personal injury attorneys of Williams Kherkher today.