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Chemical burn or reaction

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Burn from chemicals

First Aid:

1. Make sure the cause of the burn has been removed. Try not to come in contact with it yourself. If the chemical is dry, brush off any excess. Avoid brushing it into your eyes. Remove any contaminated clothing or jewelry.
2. Flush the chemicals off the skin surface using cool running water for 15 minutes or more.
3. Treat the person for shock if he or she appears faint, pale, or if there is shallow, rapid breathing.
4. Apply cool, wet compresses to relieve pain.
5. Wrap the burned area with a dry sterile dressing (if possible) or clean cloth. Protect the burned area from pressure and friction.
6. Minor chemical burns will generally heal without further treatment. However, if there is a second or third degree burn or if there is an overall body reaction, get medical help immediately. In severe cases, don't leave the person alone and watch carefully for systemic reactions.

Note: If chemical gets into the eyes, the eyes should be flushed with water immediately. Continue to flush the eyes with running water for at least 15 minutes. Get medical help immediately.

Do Not:

• DO NOT become contaminated by the chemical as you give first aid.
• DO NOT try to neutralize any chemical without consulting the Poison control Center or a physician.
• DO NOT disturb a blister or remove dead skin from a chemical burn.
• DO NOT apply any household remedy such as an ointment or salve to a chemical burn.

Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:

• The person is having difficulty breathing , is having seizures , or is unconscious .

• Review Date: 1/17/2007
• Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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