Chemical burn
Encyclopedia : C : CH : CHE : Chemical burn
A second degree chemical burn, the result of prolonged contact to concentrated
silver nitrate, on the left hand of a
caucasian female.
A chemical burn occurs when living tissue is exposed to a reactive chemical substance such as a strong acid or base. There are six types of irritant and/or corrosive products: acids, bases, oxidizers, solvents, and reducing agents.
Chemical burns may:
- need no source of heat,
- occur immediately on contact,
- be extremely painful, or
- not immediately evident or noticeable
The exact symptoms of a chemical burn depend on the chemical involved. Symptoms include itching,
bleaching or darkening of skin, burning sensations, trouble breathing, coughing blood,
tissue necrosis, and death. Sparklers and other fireworks that give off sparks or flames can give chemical burns as well as
heat induced burns. Other common sources of chemical burns include
silver nitrate (AgNO3),
hydrochloric acid (HCl),
lye (NaOH), and
lime (CaO). Chemical burns may occur through direct contact on body surfaces including skin and eyes, inhalation, and ingestion.
Chemical fabrication,
mining,
medicine, and related professional fields are examples of occupations where chemical burns may occur.
In the event of a chemical burn, the burn area should not be flushed with water, as this may spread the chemical or have other adverse reactions, including
chemical reactions with the
solute. Medical help should be sought immediately.
Any chemical that is dangerous, labeled corrosive, or is not properly indentified should never be handled without professional supervision and necessary equipment. Chemical burns follow standard burn classification and may cause extensive tissue damage.
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