Does it matter if the chili pepper is spicy to the eyes

It's generally okay to get spicy to the eyes with chili peppers, but it may cause temporary discomfort. Capsaicin in chili peppers can irritate the mucous membranes around the eyes, causing a burning sensation, tearing, or redness. It is usually relieved by rinsing with water. If you experience persistent pain, blurred vision, or corneal damage symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. After capsaicin comes into contact with the eyes, it binds to receptors at nerve endings to produce a burning sensation, which is the body's defense response. Immediately rinse the eyes with plenty of water or saline solution for at least 15 minutes, avoiding rubbing the eyes. When rinsing, open the upper and lower eyelids to ensure thorough cleaning, and use artificial tears to dilute residual irritants. In most cases, symptoms resolve on their own within a few hours, and cold compress can help reduce swelling. In rare cases, high concentrations of capsaicin may cause corneal epithelial damage or chemical conjunctivitis. If there is still severe pain, photophobia, increased secretion or decreased vision after rinsing, it may indicate corneal abrasion or secondary infection. Patients with diabetes or dry eyes need to be treated more carefully because of their weak ability to repair the eyes. In case of contact with strong irritants such as industrial pepper spray, go to emergency treatment immediately.

After handling chili peppers in daily life, it is necessary to wash hands thoroughly before touching the eyes. Wearing goggles can prevent similar situations. Maintain ventilation during cooking to reduce volatile irritation, and store chili products away from children's activity areas. If eye irritation symptoms occur repeatedly, it is recommended to check for possible allergies or chronic inflammation, and if necessary, use anti-inflammatory eye drops under the guidance of a doctor. Moderate supplementation of vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids in the diet can help maintain eye surface health.