Pepper Spray Eye Treatment

Pepper spray is a powerful self-defense tool used by spraying an attacker in the eyes. Because it contains capsaicin, which is a lachrymatory agent, it causes tears and pain to the eyes and can also produce temporary blindness. If you have been sprayed with pepper spray, it is important that you take steps to diminish its harmful effects.

1. Remain calm if you have been sprayed with pepper spray. Panicking only makes the situation worse and can exacerbate the symptoms. Move to an area that is not contaminated from the attack, and try to face the wind to help provide ventilation to the face.


2. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them from your eyes, but if you have the spray on your fingers, do not attempt to remove them with your hands, as you can inoculate yourself with more of the pepper spray. Instead, find someone to remove the lenses for you. Do not reuse the lenses; instead, discard them and get new contact lenses. Flush your eyes with cool water to dilute the pepper spray. A garden hose, kitchen sink sprayer or an eye wash station are all good options. Blink vigorously and forcefully to try to increase your tear production. This helps flush the pepper spray from the eyes. Never rub your eyes because it causes more irritation. 


3. Blowing your nose, coughing, spitting and rinsing out your mouth may also help reduce the effects of the pepper spray. Try not to swallow. If you have been sprayed on other parts of your body, remove any contaminated clothing and wash your skin to reduce pain and risk of contaminating other body parts. Maalox, 2 percent lidocaine gel, baby shampoo, milk or water are all good options. You can also use wipes specially designed to provide disinfection from pepper spray. If you are experiencing chest pains, cold sweat or shallow breathing, contact a medical professional for further treatment.