What should be used to irrigate lime burns to the eye?

Nov 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

After lime burns to the eye, irrigation is generally performed using large amounts of tap water, normal saline, bottled water, low-concentration disodium edetate solution, or clean running water. When lime comes into contact with the eyeball, it rapidly reacts with tears and releases heat, potentially causing corneal burns. Immediate irrigation with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes can dilute the concentration of alkaline substances, reduce thermal damage to tissues, and buy time for subsequent treatment.

After an eye lime burn, irrigation can generally be performed using large amounts of tap water, normal saline, bottled water, low-concentration edetate disodium solution, or clean running water. Specific details are as follows:

1. Large amounts of tap water: When lime comes into contact with the eyeball, it rapidly reacts with tears and releases heat, potentially causing corneal burns. Immediate irrigation with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes helps dilute the concentration of alkaline substances and reduces thermal damage to ocular tissues, thereby buying time for further treatment.

2. Normal saline: As a sterile solution, normal saline effectively removes residual lime particles during irrigation while minimizing the risk of infection that may arise from using non-sterile tap water. It is suitable as an alternative choice for on-site first aid.

3. Bottled water: In the absence of clean water sources at the scene, unopened bottled water can be used as a substitute. Its relatively clean quality meets emergency irrigation needs; avoid using acidic liquids or untreated wastewater, which could worsen the injury.

4. Low-concentration edetate disodium solution: Within 24 hours after a lime burn, irrigation with 0.37% to 1% edetate disodium solution may be used. This solution chelates calcium ions and reduces ongoing corneal damage caused by alkaline substances, but strict adherence to recommended concentrations and duration of use is essential.

5. Clean running water: Continuously flowing clean water ensures that debris is constantly washed away during irrigation, preventing secondary contamination. During irrigation, the upper and lower eyelids should be held open and the eye moved in all directions to ensure thorough cleansing of the entire conjunctival sac.

After irrigation, immediate medical evaluation by an ophthalmologist is necessary to assess the extent of injury. Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed to prevent infection, along with medications that promote corneal healing. During recovery, exposure to bright light should be avoided, and rubbing the eyes or wearing eye makeup is strictly prohibited.

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