Burn from chemicals

Alternative names

Chemical burn or reaction

Definition

Skin contact with chemicals can cause a limited skin reaction, an overall body reaction, or both.

Considerations

Chemical exposure is not always obvious. You should suspect chemical exposure if an otherwise healthy person becomes ill for no apparent reason, particularly if an empty chemical container is found nearby.

Exposure to chemicals at work over a long period of time can cause changing symptoms as the chemical builds up in the victim's body.

If the victim has a chemical in the eyes, see first aid for eye emergencies. If the victim has injected a drug, see first aid on drug abuse. If the victim has swallowed or inhaled a dangerous chemical, see first aid on poison.

Symptoms

The symptoms vary depending on the chemical to which the person is exposed. The symptoms may include:

• abdominal pain
  
• bright red or bluish skin and lips
  
• breathing difficulty
  
• convulsions (seizures)
  
• dizziness
  
• headache
  
• hives, itching, swelling, nausea, vomiting, or weakness resulting from an allergic reaction
  
• irritability
  
• pain where the skin has come in contact with the toxic substance
  
• rash, blisters, burns on the skin
  
• unconsciousness
  

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 victim 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 victim 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.