Chemical burns occur when the skin or eyes come into contact with irritants, such as acids or bases (alkaline).
Chemicals that come into contact with skin may cause a reaction on the skin or within the body.
Irritant contact dermatitis is a form of contact dermatitis, in which the skin is injured by friction, environmental factors such as cold, over-exposure to water, or chemicals such as acids, alkalis, detergents and solvents.
irritant contact dermatitis occurs when chemicals or physical agents damage the surface of the skin faster than the skin is able to repair the damage. Irritants remove oils and moisture (natural moisturising factor) from its outer layer, allowing chemical irritants to penetrate more deeply and cause further damage by triggering inflammation.
Irritants include such everyday things as water, detergents, solvents, acids, alkalis, adhesives, metalworking fluids and friction. Often several of these act together to injure the skin.
Irritant contact dermatitis may affect anyone, given sufficient exposure to irritants, but those with atopic dermatitis are particularly susceptible. 80% of cases of occupational hand dermatitis are due to irritants, most often affecting cleaners, hairdressers and food handlers.
Contact irritant dermatitis can appear differently according to the conditions of exposure.
>Accidental exposure to a strong irritant such as a strong acid or alkali substance may cause an immediate skin reaction resulting in pain, swelling and blistering.
>Contact with mild irritants such as water and soap or detergent may over a period of weeks cause dryness, itching and cracking of the skin. Eventually sores may appear which form crusts and scales.
It is important to recognise how you are in contact with the responsible substance(s) so that, where possible, you can avoid it (them) or at least reduce exposure. Wear appropriate gloves to protect against irritants in your home and work environment.
TREATMENT INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING :
>>Chemical burns are usually flushed with water followed by use of antidote or specific remedy against the particular toxic chemical.
If possible, first aid should be given to chemical burns immediately. This includes removing the chemical that caused the burn and rinsing the skin under running water for 10 to 20 minutes
Wrap the burned area loosely if possible with a dry sterile dressing or clean cloth. If the burn is superficial, take an over-the- counter pain reliever.
>>Compresses, creams and ointments may assist healing
Emollient creams
Topical steroids
Antibiotics for secondary infection (usually flucloxacillin or erythromycin)
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It is recommended that all individuals see a Family Doctor for a full medical examination annually. Adults should get their blood pressure checked (US Preventive Task Force), a flu vaccine (CDC) and more each year.
The American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings for adults at least twice annually. Some stains can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
It’s recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that every adult between the ages of 18 and 80 does an eye examination at least once every two years.
It's recommended by the American Cancer Association that every adult between the age of 20 and 80 does an annual skin screening by a licensed dermatologist.
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