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Cause: intense ultraviolet light burns to corneas (keratitis) (e.g. arc welding, UV lamps, snow reflection)
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Precautions: foreign bodies; continued use of topical anaesthetics (once only)
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Topical long-acting LA drops (e.g. amethocaine) once only
Homatropine 2% eye drops, 1–2 drops statim
Broad-spectrum antibiotic eye ointment, bd in lower fornix (48 h)
Analgesics (e.g. codeine + paracetamol)
Eye padding for 24 h then review
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The eye usually heals completely in 48 h. If not, check for a foreign body.
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Note: Contact lens ‘overwear syndrome’ gives the same symptoms.