Onions are a common staple in many kitchens, but they come with an annoying side effect—eye irritation. If you’ve ever cut onions, you’re probably familiar with the sting and tears that often follow. Here’s why onions make your eyes burn and what you can do to alleviate the discomfort.
Why Do Onions Cause Eye Burning?
When you cut an onion, it releases a sulfur compound called propyl sulfoxide. This sulfur compound acts as a natural defense mechanism to keep animals from eating the onion. When the onion cells are broken, the sulfur compounds mix with the moisture in the air to create sulfuric acid. When this acid comes into contact with your eyes, it causes a stinging sensation.
Your body responds by releasing tears to flush out the sulfuric acid, and this is why your eyes water when chopping onions. While the irritation can be uncomfortable, it is temporary, and onion tears typically subside once the irritants are cleared from your eyes.
How to Reduce Discomfort from Onions
If your eyes are burning from chopping onions, here are a few tips to help alleviate the discomfort:
- Chill the Onions: Place onions in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cutting them. This slows down the release of sulfuric compounds, reducing the irritation.
- Use a Fan: Cutting onions in front of a fan can direct the sulfuric gases away from your eyes, lessening irritation.
- Wear Protective Eyewear: Kitchen goggles or any type of eye protection can shield your eyes from the sulfuric compounds released while cutting onions.
- Cut with Water: Submerging the onion in water while you cut it helps keep the sulfuric acid from becoming airborne.
- Use Fresh Onions: Older onions release more sulfuric acid. Using fresher onions can help reduce the intensity of the irritation.
What to Do if the Eye Irritation Persists
If the burning eyes continue even after cutting onions or you experience frequent irritation, it might indicate a more serious issue. Chronic eye irritation could be a sign of dry eye or an underlying eye condition.
If you experience ongoing discomfort, redness, or blurry vision after handling onions, it’s best to consult a doctor. Eyes On Group in Worcester specializes in diagnosing and treating eye irritation and a variety of other eye conditions.
When to Seek Help for Eye Irritation
If your eyes remain irritated, are sensitive to light, or if you experience blurry vision, it may be time to visit an eye care professional. At Eyes On Group in Worcester, our experienced optometrists can perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine if there’s a more serious issue causing your eye discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can onions permanently damage my eyes?
No, onions won’t cause permanent damage to your eyes. The irritation and burning you experience are caused by sulfuric acid, which your body will flush out in a short period. However, if you experience prolonged symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor.
How can I prevent eye irritation when cutting onions?
Chilling onions, using a fan, and wearing protective eyewear are some of the best ways to reduce eye discomfort when cutting onions.