First Aid for Acid and Chemical Burns
What are acid and chemical burns?
Acid and chemical burns are injuries to the skin or eyes
caused by exposure to corrosive substances, such as acids, alkalis, solvents,
or bleach. These substances can damage the skin or eyes by breaking down the
protective layers, causing inflammation, blistering, pain, and sometimes
permanent scarring or vision loss.
What are the signs and symptoms of acid and chemical burns?
The signs and symptoms of acid and chemical burns depend on
the type, concentration, amount, and duration of exposure to the substance.
Some common signs and symptoms include:
·
Redness, swelling, or blistering of the affected
area
·
Severe pain or burning sensation
·
Difficulty breathing or swallowing if the
substance is inhaled or ingested
·
Loss of vision or eye irritation if the
substance is in the eyes
·
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if the substance
is ingested
What should you do if you or someone else has an acid or chemical burn?
If you or someone else has an acid or chemical burn, you
should follow these steps:
·
Remove the source of the burn. If the substance
is on the skin or clothing, remove the clothing and rinse the affected area
with plenty of cool water for at least 15 minutes. If the substance is in the
eyes, rinse the eyes with plenty of cool water for at least 15 minutes, keeping
the eyelids open. If the substance is inhaled or ingested, do not induce
vomiting and seek medical attention immediately.
·
Call for emergency help. If the burn is severe,
covers a large area, affects the face, eyes, or genitals, or causes breathing
or swallowing difficulties, call 911 or your local emergency number as soon as
possible.
·
Apply a loose, sterile dressing. If the burn is
mild or moderate, cover the affected area with a clean, damp cloth or a sterile
gauze bandage. Do not apply any creams, ointments, or home remedies, as they
may interfere with healing or cause infection.
·
Treat the pain and prevent shock. If the burn is
painful, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or
acetaminophen, unless you have a medical condition that prevents you from
taking them. You can also elevate the affected area and keep it cool with a wet
cloth or ice pack. If the person is showing signs of shock, such as pale skin,
rapid pulse, or fainting, lay them down and elevate their legs. Keep them warm
and calm until help arrives.
How can you prevent acid and chemical burns?
You can prevent acid and chemical burns by following these
safety tips:
·
Read and follow the instructions and warnings on
the labels of any products that contain corrosive substances, such as cleaners,
detergents, or batteries.
·
Wear protective gloves, goggles, and clothing
when handling or using these products.
·
Store these products in a safe place, away from
children and pets.
·
Do not mix different products, as they may react
and produce harmful gases or heat.
·
Dispose of these products properly, according to
the local regulations.
What are the complications of acid and chemical burns?
Acid and chemical burns can have serious and long-lasting
consequences, such as:
·
Infection. The damaged skin or eyes may become
infected by bacteria or fungi, which can spread to other parts of the body and
cause sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
·
Scarring. The burned skin or eyes may heal with
scar tissue, which can impair the function and appearance of the affected area.
Scars may also contract and limit the movement of the joints or muscles.
·
Disfigurement. The burned skin or eyes may lose
their normal color, texture, or shape, which can affect the person’s
self-esteem and social interactions.
·
Vision loss. The burned eyes may suffer
permanent damage to the cornea, the lens, or the retina, which can result in
partial or complete blindness.
What are the treatment options for acid and chemical burns?
The treatment options for acid and chemical burns depend on
the severity, location, and extent of the injury. Some possible treatment
options include:
·
Medication. The doctor may prescribe
antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or painkillers to prevent infection,
reduce inflammation, or relieve pain.
·
Debridement. The doctor may remove the dead or
damaged tissue from the wound to promote healing and prevent infection.
·
Skin grafting. The doctor may transplant healthy
skin from another part of the body or from a donor to cover the wound and
restore the skin function and appearance.
·
Eye surgery. The doctor may perform surgery to
repair the damaged eye structures, such as the cornea, the lens, or the retina,
or to replace them with artificial implants.
·
Rehabilitation. The doctor may refer the person
to a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, or a psychologist to help
them recover their physical, functional, or emotional well-being.
