Pictures of chemical burns on skin. Chemical Burns: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
What are the common causes of chemical burns. How can you identify the symptoms of a chemical burn. What immediate steps should be taken for treating a chemical burn. How can chemical burns be prevented in various settings.
Understanding Chemical Burns: Types and Causes
Chemical burns occur when the skin or eyes come into contact with irritants or corrosive substances. These burns can range from mild to severe, depending on the type of chemical, concentration, and duration of exposure. Common causes include:
- Household cleaning products
- Industrial chemicals
- Car battery acid
- Bleach and ammonia
- Concrete mix and cement
- Strong acids or alkalis
- Fertilizers and pesticides
In some cases, plant sap from species like giant hogweed can cause phytophotodermatitis, a type of chemical burn that becomes more severe when exposed to sunlight.
Are all chemical burns caused by artificial substances?
No, not all chemical burns are caused by artificial substances. While many chemical burns result from manufactured products, some natural substances can also cause chemical burns. For example, the sap of certain plants like giant hogweed, poison ivy, and burning bush (Dictamnus) can cause severe skin reactions that resemble chemical burns. Additionally, some animal venoms and bodily fluids can cause chemical-like burns on human skin.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Chemical Burns
Identifying a chemical burn quickly is crucial for proper treatment. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the burn but may include:
- Redness, irritation, or burning sensation on the skin
- Pain or numbness in the affected area
- Blisters or skin peeling
- Changes in skin color (blackened or bleached appearance)
- Difficulty breathing if fumes are inhaled
- Vision changes if chemicals enter the eyes
Can chemical burns occur without immediate pain?
Yes, in some cases, chemical burns can occur without immediate pain. Certain chemicals, particularly alkalis, can penetrate deep into the tissues before causing noticeable discomfort. This delayed reaction can lead to more severe damage as the chemical continues to burn the skin and underlying tissues. It’s important to be aware of any changes in skin appearance or texture, even if pain is not immediately present, especially after contact with potentially harmful substances.
Immediate First Aid for Chemical Burns
When a chemical burn occurs, swift action is critical to minimize damage. Follow these steps:
- Remove the chemical source and any contaminated clothing
- Rinse the affected area with cool running water for at least 20 minutes
- For dry chemicals, brush off any residue before rinsing
- Cover the burn with a clean, dry dressing or cloth
- Seek medical attention, especially for severe burns or if the chemical has been ingested or inhaled
Should you neutralize acids or bases in chemical burns?
Generally, it is not recommended to attempt neutralizing acids or bases in chemical burns. The neutralization process can generate heat, potentially causing additional harm to the affected area. The safest approach is to flush the burn with copious amounts of cool water for an extended period. This dilutes and removes the chemical, reducing its harmful effects. Always prioritize thorough rinsing over attempting to neutralize the substance, and seek professional medical help for proper treatment.
Long-Term Treatment and Management of Chemical Burns
After initial first aid, ongoing treatment may be necessary depending on the severity of the burn. This can include:
- Prescription topical medications or ointments
- Oral antibiotics to prevent infection
- Pain management strategies
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Surgical interventions for severe burns
- Physical therapy to maintain mobility and prevent scarring
In cases of extensive burns, specialized burn centers may provide the most comprehensive care.
How long does it typically take for chemical burns to heal?
The healing time for chemical burns varies greatly depending on the severity of the burn and the type of chemical involved. Minor chemical burns may heal within a few days to a week with proper care. Moderate burns might take several weeks to heal completely. Severe chemical burns can take months to heal and may require skin grafts or other surgical interventions. Factors such as the depth of the burn, the area affected, and the individual’s overall health also influence healing time. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential to monitor the healing process and prevent complications.
Preventing Chemical Burns in the Workplace
Occupational settings often present risks for chemical burns. Employers and employees should take the following precautions:
- Provide and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Implement proper storage and handling procedures for chemicals
- Ensure adequate ventilation in areas where chemicals are used
- Conduct regular safety training and updates
- Maintain easily accessible eyewash stations and safety showers
- Keep material safety data sheets (MSDS) readily available
What industries are at highest risk for chemical burns?
Several industries face a higher risk of chemical burns due to the nature of their work. These include:
- Manufacturing, particularly in chemical production facilities
- Construction, where workers handle cement and other corrosive materials
- Healthcare, due to exposure to cleaning and sterilizing agents
- Agriculture, with risks from pesticides and fertilizers
- Cleaning services, using various strong cleaning products
- Automotive industry, especially in battery manufacturing and repair
- Beauty and cosmetology, where chemical treatments are common
Workers in these industries should be particularly vigilant about safety protocols and proper use of protective equipment to minimize the risk of chemical burns.
Home Safety: Preventing Chemical Burns in Household Settings
Many common household products can cause chemical burns if mishandled. To ensure safety at home:
- Store cleaning products and chemicals out of reach of children
- Use child-resistant locks on cabinets containing hazardous substances
- Read and follow all product labels and instructions carefully
- Wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling strong chemicals
- Never mix cleaning products, especially those containing bleach or ammonia
- Ensure proper ventilation when using chemical products indoors
- Dispose of chemicals properly according to local regulations
Are natural cleaning products safer in terms of chemical burn risk?
While natural cleaning products are often marketed as safer alternatives, they can still pose risks for chemical burns, albeit generally lower ones. Many natural cleaning agents, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or essential oils, are acidic and can cause skin irritation or burns if used in high concentrations or with prolonged exposure. However, they typically present a lower risk compared to harsh synthetic chemicals. It’s important to remember that “natural” doesn’t always mean harmless. Users should still follow safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and avoiding eye contact, even when using natural cleaning products.
Chemical Burns from Plants: Identification and Prevention
Certain plants can cause chemical-like burns on skin contact. Common culprits include:
- Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum)
- Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)
- Burning bush (Dictamnus albus)
- Manchineel tree (Hippomane mancinella)
- Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)
To prevent plant-induced chemical burns:
- Learn to identify harmful plants in your area
- Wear protective clothing when hiking or gardening
- Avoid touching unknown plants, especially those with milky sap
- Wash skin and clothes promptly after potential exposure
- Use barrier creams when working in areas with known toxic plants
How does sunlight affect plant-induced chemical burns?
Sunlight can significantly exacerbate the effects of plant-induced chemical burns, a phenomenon known as phytophotodermatitis. This occurs when certain plant chemicals, called furocoumarins, are activated by ultraviolet (UV) light. Plants like giant hogweed, wild parsnip, and some citrus fruits contain these compounds. When skin comes into contact with the plant sap and is then exposed to sunlight, it can result in severe burns, blistering, and long-lasting skin discoloration. The reaction may not be immediate, often developing 24 to 48 hours after exposure. To prevent this, it’s crucial to wash the skin thoroughly after potential plant contact and avoid sun exposure to the affected areas for several days.
Chemical Burns in Children: Special Considerations
Children are particularly vulnerable to chemical burns due to their curiosity and smaller body size. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the following:
- Keep all chemicals, including medications, out of reach and sight of children
- Use safety locks on cabinets containing potentially harmful substances
- Teach children about the dangers of household chemicals from an early age
- Supervise children closely during activities involving potential chemical exposure
- Store chemicals in their original containers to avoid confusion
- Be aware of hidden sources of chemicals, such as button batteries or glow sticks
What are the most common sources of chemical burns in children?
The most common sources of chemical burns in children include:
- Household cleaning products, especially toilet bowl cleaners and drain openers
- Laundry detergent pods, which are often brightly colored and attractive to young children
- Personal care products like hair relaxers or nail polish removers
- Pool chemicals and water treatment products
- Button batteries, which can cause severe chemical burns if swallowed
- Certain medications, particularly if chewed instead of swallowed whole
- Glow sticks, which contain a mildly toxic chemical that can irritate skin and eyes
Parents and caregivers should be particularly vigilant about these items and ensure they are stored securely out of children’s reach.
Psychological Impact of Chemical Burns
The effects of chemical burns extend beyond physical injuries. Survivors may experience significant psychological trauma, including:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression and anxiety
- Body image issues, especially with visible scarring
- Fear of returning to work or activities associated with the incident
- Social isolation or withdrawal
Comprehensive treatment for chemical burn victims should include psychological support and counseling to address these potential mental health impacts.
How can support groups help chemical burn survivors?
Support groups can play a crucial role in the recovery process for chemical burn survivors. These groups offer numerous benefits:
- Emotional support from others who have had similar experiences
- Sharing of coping strategies and practical tips for daily challenges
- Reduction of feelings of isolation and loneliness
- Opportunities to rebuild self-esteem and confidence
- Access to information about new treatments and resources
- A safe space to express fears and frustrations
- Inspiration from seeing others’ recovery progress
Many burn centers and hospitals offer support groups, and online communities can provide additional support for those unable to attend in-person meetings. Engaging with these groups can significantly enhance the emotional healing process alongside physical recovery.
Advancements in Chemical Burn Treatment
Medical research continues to improve treatment options for chemical burn victims. Recent advancements include:
- Specialized wound dressings that promote healing and reduce scarring
- Skin substitutes and bioengineered tissues for severe burns
- Advanced pain management techniques
- Laser therapy for scar reduction
- Virtual reality applications for pain distraction during treatment
- Gene therapy approaches to enhance wound healing
These innovations offer hope for improved outcomes and quality of life for chemical burn survivors.
What role does nanotechnology play in chemical burn treatment?
Nanotechnology is emerging as a promising field in the treatment of chemical burns. Its applications include:
- Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for more effective topical treatments
- Nanofiber scaffolds that promote skin regeneration and reduce scarring
- Nanomaterials with antimicrobial properties to prevent infection in burn wounds
- Nanosensors for early detection of wound complications
- Nanocomposite dressings that create an optimal healing environment
While many of these applications are still in research phases, they show significant potential for revolutionizing chemical burn treatment by enhancing healing, reducing complications, and minimizing long-term scarring.
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Chemical burn on the skin from touching the plant burning Bush, DictamnusChemical burn on woman hand from burning bush Dictamnus albusStandard chemical signIllustration of gas mask and fire in glasses on greyCosmetology. Skin condition after chemical peeling TCA.top burned layerChemical burn on the man’s right foot.Chemical burn on the wrist skin with hydroxide sodium acid, by striping paint from wood. Festering and deep wound. Household accident, because of gloves to sharp. Selective focusChemical burn on the skin from touching the plant burning Bush, DictamnusChemical burn on the skin from touching the plant burning Bush, Dictamnus
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Chemical burn: classification, first aid, treatment
The article was checked by a doctor: Yury Igorevich Kan
Causes and symptoms of a chemical burn
A chemical burn is associated with exposure to highly concentrated aggressive compounds on the skin and mucous membranes. The main cause of burn damage to the skin and eyes is accidental or deliberate contact with chemicals, non-compliance with safety precautions at home and at work, errors in the choice of means, and the use of chlorine-containing detergents.
When toxicants come into contact with the skin or eyes, colliquation necrosis develops – the tissue melts, becomes flabby, moist, edema, redness, and purulent infiltrate form around. There is a risk of secondary infection.
At the site of the burn, an area of wet necrosis appears, covered with a white or black crust (scab). After rejection of the scab, an ulcer is formed, then a scar. How long a burn takes to heal depends on the chemical, the area, and the depth of the injury.
Chemical burns of the mucous membranes of the pharynx, larynx, esophagus and stomach occur after inhalation of toxic fumes or ingestion of chemicals. The main reason is the erroneous or deliberate ingestion of toxicants, unconventional treatment, and the intake of alcohol surrogates.
Aggressive components get on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, and damage the epithelium, provoke necrobiosis – irreversible cell death.
When exposed to small doses of toxicants, only signs of chemical irritation and mild intoxication appear:
soreness in the abdomen,
burning and sore throat,
feeling of suffocation,
nausea and vomiting,
rapid breathing,
throat swelling.
In severe burns of the pharynx, esophagus, the pathological process affects not only the mucous membranes, but also the submucosal and muscular layers. Chemicals penetrate into the deep layers, destroy red blood cells, and disseminated vascular coagulation (DIC) develops – massive internal bleeding.
Help! Alkalis cause a more pronounced burn of the stomach, acids – the esophagus.
At the stage of recovery and regeneration, necrotic tissue is rejected, a healthy mucous membrane is restored, and a scar is formed at the site of necrosis. With severe burns of internal organs, complete recovery does not occur – stenosis is formed, the patient suffers from chronic inflammatory diseases.
Burning substances
Chemical burns provoked by various chemicals:
alkalis: sodium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, caustic soda;
concentrated acids: acetic, hydrochloric, sulfuric;
other substances: hydrogen peroxide, iodine, ammonia, acetone, silicate glue, potassium permanganate, phenol;
household cleaners;
substitute for alcohol.
More than 85% of chemical damage to the pharynx and esophagus in adults is caused by the intake of acetic acid, in children – potassium permanganate.
Reference! Most patients with esophageal burns are children under 10 years of age. The intake of toxicants occurs unintentionally, but because of the distraction of children, natural curiosity, carelessness of parents.
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Classification of chemical burns
Taking into account the depth of chemical damage, the clinical picture is divided into three degrees of skin burns:
I degree. Incomplete damage to the skin or surface layer of the epithelium, caused by a short-term or weak intensity of the active substance. Local signs are limited swelling, redness of the skin, burning sensation and local pain. Healing occurs on 3-5 knocks on its own without scarring.
II degree. Accompanied by damage to the epidermis, with the formation of blisters filled with liquid transparent contents. After 2-3 days, the liquid becomes thick and jelly-like. Pain, swelling and redness at the site of injury are more pronounced. Tissue repair continues for 12–15 days. The risk of infection is growing.
III degree. Determined for damage to the lower and superficial layers of the skin. There are two types: III degree A – the cells of the deepest basal layer are preserved, III degree B – necrosis of the entire thickness of the skin and the inner layer occurs. At the site of the burn, an area of wet necrosis is formed, covered with a crust. Rejection of the crusts occurs after 10–15 days, and complete healing of the burn injury takes 1–2 months. A rough scar is formed at the site of damage to the skin.
With chemical damage to the mucous membranes of the organs of the respiratory and digestive systems, three degrees of severity are also distinguished:
light – damage to the surface layer of the epithelium;
medium – lesion to the level of the mucous layer;
severe – injury to the mucous membrane and underlying tissues at different depths.
Depending on the spread of the pathological process, burns are isolated and combined.
Complications of chemical burns
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Extensive and deep local burn injuries lead to the development of burn disease, which is accompanied by a violation of the water-salt balance, circulatory disorders, exhaustion of the immune system, and intoxication.
Various complications occur with progressive burns:
intestinal paresis – paralysis of the muscles of the intestinal wall;
myocarditis – inflammation in the muscular membrane of the heart;
pericarditis – inflammation of the outer lining of the heart;
pneumonia;
bronchitis;
pulmonary edema;
pleurisy;
glomerulonephritis is an immunoinflammatory disease of the kidneys,
pyelitis – inflammation in the renal pelvis.
The defeat of deep tissues is aggravated by the formation of limited or diffuse purulent-inflammatory changes in the muscles, subcutaneous fat, the occurrence of sepsis, arthritis. The undesirable consequences of burns include the formation of coarse inelastic scars.
Help! Exposure to any physical and chemical factor that causes incomplete damage to the surface layer of the skin in an adult leads to deep trauma in children.
Burns of the eyes, esophagus, respiratory tract are more severe, disrupt important vital functions.
Among the complications of chemical damage to the respiratory and digestive organs, the most common are:
swelling of the larynx and pharynx,
stenosis of the larynx – narrowing of the lumen,
respiratory failure,
neck phlegmon,
chronic pharyngitis,
perforation of the esophagus.
With chemical damage to the deep layers of the mucous and submucosal membranes, toxic substances enter the systemic circulation and cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and brain.
The outcomes of severe eye burns include a decrease in visual function, atrophy of the eyeball, and the formation of a thorn.
First aid for chemical burns
The further prognosis of a burn injury depends on how timely and competently measures of emergency assistance were provided to the victim.
How to provide emergency care:
Limit human contact with the chemical.
Rinse the burned area with plenty of water, a weakly concentrated solution of soda or citric acid.
A fresh wound should not be treated with ointment, cream, spray, vegetable oil, and blisters should not be opened on their own.
For shallow burns limited to a small area, carefully remove clothing, apply a sterile dressing or bandage.
In case of burns of the 3rd degree, wrap the victim in a clean sheet, give painkillers, call emergency help or take him to a specialized medical facility on his own.
Before the ambulance arrives, it is important to solder with warm water to prevent dehydration.
Eye burn
First aid for a chemical eye burn is important to provide on the spot.
Urgent measures:
Rinse the conjunctiva with water or saline.
Remove pus and mucus, chemical residues.
Rinse the nasolacrimal canal with saline.
Drop or apply an antiseptic preparation into the conjunctival cavity.
It is strictly contraindicated to use neutralizing solutions on your own, since it is difficult to predict the reaction of substances to damaged tissue.
Burn of the esophagus and pharynx
First aid is provided at the prehospital stage or in the intensive care unit. To neutralize acids, a soda solution is used, alkalis – a weakly concentrated solution of acetic acid with oil. If the exact toxicant is not known, the oral cavity is washed with a large amount of clean water at room temperature, two glasses of milk are given to drink.
Important! Washing is performed only in the first 5-6 hours after the burn, then the procedure is not advisable.
What not to do with a chemical burn
When swallowing aggressive chemical compounds, it is strictly forbidden to induce vomiting, as the risk of rupture of the esophagus increases. Do not give activated charcoal – solid tablets additionally injure the esophagus.
It is not necessary to completely lay the victim down so as not to provoke gastroesophageal reflux disease – the reverse reflux of stomach contents. The optimal position is semi-sitting.
Chemical burn treatment
How to treat a chemical burn depends on the depth and area of the injury. 1st-2nd degree burns are superficial and may heal on their own. With progressive tissue damage, qualified medical care is needed, removal of dead tissue, followed by correction of scars. Burns are treated in special burn wards.
At the first stage, the burn surface is treated to prevent infection from entering the body:
-
Treat the skin around the burn surface with an antiseptic.
They remove impurities, the remnants of toxicants, open and empty large blisters, pour a peroxide solution on the wound, and dry it.
Apply an ointment, cream or spray on top.
With extensive and deep lesions, the treatment of burn wounds is performed under anesthesia.
The wound surface is protected with a bandage or left open.
At the first stages of tissue repair, ointments, solutions and aerosols with analgesic, cooling and healing effects are used. In the presence of a scab, it is not removed, left until self-rejection. Solutions with wax and paraffin are applied to the wound surface so as not to damage the growing epithelium during dressings. Salicylic ointment and proteases break down the dry crust formed during severe burns.
At the second and third stages, drugs are prescribed to activate metabolism, improve blood circulation, and protect against infections.
With deep burns and large areas of tissue damage, a person loses a lot of fluid and salts. To compensate for the loss of protein and water, to prevent dehydration, to normalize the acid-base balance, nutrient solutions, glucose, and sodium chloride are administered through a dropper.
Esophageal burn treatment
To remove the irritating substance, a gastric tube treated with petroleum jelly is installed, and the stomach is washed with an antidote – water, soda solution, a non-concentrated solution of vinegar and oil. Preliminary anesthesia is carried out.
An antibiotic is given to prevent infection. Further, taking into account the patient’s condition, analgesic, anti-shock, detoxification therapy is prescribed.
In the subacute phase, after 7–10 days, bougienage of the esophagus is performed daily – expansion of the lumen using an endoscopic device. The procedure allows you to normalize the patency of the body, reduce scarring. With stenosis and complete obstruction of the esophagus, the formation of rough scars, surgical treatment is carried out in a planned manner.
Eye burn treatment
In the hospital, the patient is injected with anticholinergic drops into the conjunctival cavity. They are well anesthetized, minimize the risk of adhesions. Antibacterial ointments or drops are used to prevent infection. Antioxidants are administered intramuscularly. With increased intraocular pressure, antihypertensive drugs are prescribed.
In case of severe eye burns, hormonal therapy is connected – subconjunctival injections (in the area of the transitional fold of the conjunctiva) and parabulbar (through the skin of the lower eyelid to the edge of the orbit).
In combination with pharmacotherapy, eyelid massage and physiotherapy have a good effect. With the threat of loss of vision in the early period, surgical treatment is performed on the eyelids, eyeball, conjunctiva, cornea.
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degrees, first aid and treatment at different stages
Types of burns
- Thermal
- Chemical
- Electrical
- Solar
Thermal burns
Thermal burns are the most common 2 . They occur when the skin comes into contact with hot liquids, boiling water, steam, with hot surfaces and from intense thermal radiation, as well as when interacting with a flame.
Thermal skin burn
Thermal burn occurs as a result of high temperature exposure to the skin and underlying tissues. How to provide first aid, and how are such injuries treated?
Read more
Chemical burns
Chemical burns 2 occur as a result of acid, alkali solutions coming into contact with the skin. The damaging effect begins from the moment the aggressive liquid hits the skin until the completion of the chemical reaction. The boundaries of chemical burns are clear. Under the influence of nitric acid, a scab (crust) of a yellow-green hue is formed, sulfuric acid – black, hydrochloric acid – light yellow.
Household chemicals must be kept out of the reach of children!
Electrical burns
Electrical burns – local manifestations of electrical injury 2 . As a rule, electrical burns and electrical trauma are combined. The damaging effect of electric current on the skin and soft tissues occurs in response to the action of converted electrical energy into heat.
Keep electrical appliances, sockets and exposed wires away from small children.
Sunburn
Sunburn , or solar dermatitis, results from long-term exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The degree of damage to the skin depends on the duration of exposure to radiation and the phototype of the skin. The lighter the skin, the faster sunburn can occur. Therefore, before going out into the sun, it is very important to treat delicate baby skin with special protective agents.
Degrees of severity of burns
Burns of the 1st degree
Immediately after contact with the damaging factor, pain, burning, the skin turns red, and swelling of the skin that has been exposed to aggressive effects occurs.
Second degree burn
Second degree burns result in the death of the surface layer of the skin – the epidermis. The skin acquires a bright red color, puffiness appears, blisters form with a transparent yellowish content. The blisters break open, exposing a bright pink wound surface.
A feature of a second degree chemical burn is the absence of blistering. A crust is immediately formed from the dead layer of the epidermis, or the surface layer of the skin is completely torn off.
III degree burns
Not only the epidermis dies, but also the upper layers of the dermis. Bubbles may also form.
When scalded with steam or hot water, a sign of III degree burns is a whitish-gray coating, a wet crust.
Dry light brown crust on contact with flame.
III-b degree burns
Characterized by the death of the entire thickness of the skin and sometimes subcutaneous fat.
When burned with steam or hot water, the skin becomes soft, resembling a pale gray dough in consistency.
Flame burns form a hard, dark brown crust.
IV degree burns
At this stage, not only the skin and subcutaneous fat die, but also the underlying muscle membranes (fascia), muscles, tendons and bones. The scab (crust) is thick, dense with signs of charring.
In case of severe burns with acid, a dry dense crust is formed, in case of burns with alkali, the crust is soft for the first few days, then either undergoes purulent melting or dries up.
First aid for burns
Depending on the type of burn received, the first aid algorithm will be slightly different.
First aid for thermal burns
Interrupt exposure to the thermal agent.
Upon contact with a hot object, steam or hot liquid, immediately stop the damaging effect. If clothes caught fire from an open flame, they douse them with water, throw in a tarpaulin or blanket.
Cool the affected area.
After thermal exposure, it is recommended to cool the burnt tissue (cold water, snow, ice). This event reduces the temperature of the tissues and weakens the damaging thermal effect.
Clothing should not be removed from the burned area, it should be cut open and carefully removed . At the pre-medical stage , clothes adhering to the burn are not removed before dressing is applied, the blisters are not pierced.
First aid for electrical burns
Electrical burns are characterized by sooting and metallization of the burnt areas due to the combustion of conductor particles. Electrical burns are often combined with thermal burns due to the ignition of clothing.
If the skin is damaged by electricity:
Stop the electric current.
Disconnect the device or wire from the power supply, discard the conductive wires from the victim, pull them away from the exposed wires. The person providing first aid must take care of his own safety. Before performing the manipulation of de-energizing, it is necessary to wrap your hands with a dry cloth, stand on a board, rubber mat or any other object that does not conduct electricity 1 .
After isolating the victim from the power source, if necessary, perform artificial respiration and chest compressions . Bring a cotton swab with 10% ammonia solution 1 to the victim’s nose.
Cover the burned area with a sterile dressing.
First aid for chemical burns
As soon as possible remove clothing soaked with an aggressive substance.
Wash the affected area.
For 10-15 minutes, the affected areas are washed with plenty of running cold water. If the contact of the chemical with the skin lasted for some time, then the washing time is increased to 40 minutes.
Neutralize chemicals.
For acid lesions, use a 2-3% solution of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), for exposure to alkalis, use a 2-5% solution of acetic or citric acid.
Apply to the lesions with a dry aseptic dressing.
First aid for sunburn
First aid for sunburn consists of applying soothing and healing agents to the skin. If blisters occur, wet-dry dressings with tannin solution or oak bark decoction can be recommended 2 . Dermatologists also recommend taking allergy medications (antihistamines) 2 .
Treatment of burns
To determine the tactics of treatment and predict the recovery of affected tissues except cause of burn must be determined:
- Depth of injury . To do this, evaluate the condition of the skin. Redness of the skin and blisters are interpreted in favor of II degree burns.
Absence of pain when pricked with a needle, pulling out hair, touching the burn site with an alcohol-containing substance, absence of “play of capillaries” after pressing with a finger – in favor of severe damage, not less than III-a degree. - Damage area . Doctors in practice use the “rule of nines” and “palms”. So, the head and one upper limb make up 9% of total body surface. One lower limb, anterior and posterior surfaces of the body 18% each, genitals and perineum 1%. According to the “palms” rule, the entire surface of the body can be measured with the palms, taking the size of 1 palm as 1% of the total body area.
- On the basis of the depth and area of damage, doctors calculate an index of the severity of the lesion .
Severe burns should be treated in a hospital, burn unit.
In some cases, primary surgical debridement is required to remove dead tissue, grafting a skin flap.
Algorithm for the treatment of minor burns and wounds in a child. Watch a short video with surgeon Fyodor Yanovich Kraskovsky.
Treatment of burns at different stages of healing
During the restoration of burned skin, the same processes occur
as in the healing of any wounds: the stage of inflammation, regeneration,
maturation (epitalization and reorganization of the scar).
Phases of burn healing
For the treatment of first degree burns, soothing creams and ointments containing dexpanthenol and tannin are used. Healing occurs in a few days.
Burns, starting from the II degree of severity, are susceptible to infection, because the skin barrier is broken. For the treatment and prevention of wound infection, antiseptic agents are prescribed.
Inflammatory phase
The choice of antiseptic preparation for the treatment of burn wounds must be approached with particular care. The agent must have a broad antibacterial spectrum of action, be safe when applied, and not cause burning or pain during processing.
For this purpose, since the 1970s, povidone-iodine preparations have been used, which have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects 4.7 . Iodine in combination with povidone does not cause tissue burning when applied even to open wounds. The use of povidone-iodine solution and ointment for superficial injuries leads to rapid and high-quality wound healing without significant inflammation and infection 5 .
Based on povidone-iodine for decontamination of wound surfaces 10% solution for external use Betadine ® and 10% ointment for external use Betadine ® .
Apply a thin layer to damaged skin several times a day. When treating infected wounds under napkins soaked in solution or ointment Betadine ® , during the first 5-7 days edema and the amount of purulent discharge decrease, pain decreases 6 . Betadine ® solution and ointment are approved for use in children from the age of one month 7 .
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Povidone iodine
Characteristics and properties of povidone-iodine. What is povidone-iodine used for? Instructions for use of the solution, ointment, suppositories Betadine ® with povidone-iodine.
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Regeneration phase
Regenerating ointments and creams are used during the regeneration phase, for example, products based on lanthanum salts, water extract of wheat, dexpanthenol.
Maturation phase
The maturation of scar tissue occurs in the third phase of wound healing. Depending on the severity of the burn, scarring may remain. At this stage, to prevent the development of rough scars, it is recommended to use creams and gels based on silicone, hyaluronidase.
How to prevent burns in children
In children, burn injuries are more common before the age of 5 years 1 . Inquisitive kids can pull a pot of boiling water towards themselves, put their finger into a socket, touch a hot iron, pour or spray household chemicals. The high risk of burns in young children is associated with their inability to independently assess the danger of fire, hot liquids, chemicals.
Therefore, to prevent children from getting burn wounds, it is recommended: , pots, pans with hot contents in the area of direct reach of children To prevent infection after a burn, it is better not to pierce the blisters yourself, but to consult a doctor for proper treatment. If, nevertheless, the blisters burst, then the wound surface must be washed with a solution of chlorhexidine or treated with a solution of Betadine ® . Depending on the depth of the burn injury, the duration of healing will be different. With a first degree burn, the skin will recover in a few days. For second-degree burns, if the wound does not become infected, the skin will heal within two weeks, and a temporary change in skin color (pigmentation) may remain. With III and IV degree burns, healing can take up to 1.5 months or more. Usually there are scars and a violation of skin pigmentation. Moshkova Elena Mikhailovna Dermatovenereologist, Head of KDO for the provision of paid services, St.0003 Read related topic Thermal skin burn Thermal burn occurs as a result of high temperature exposure to the skin and underlying tissues. How to provide first aid, and how are such injuries treated? More Polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone) Polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone): application, use in the povidone-iodine complex. Read more Ointments and creams for burns What are the types of ointments for the treatment of burns, and how to choose the most effective one. Frequently asked questions
What should not be done in case of a burn in children?
Can blisters be punctured after a burn?
How long does it take for burns to heal?