My hand still hasn't gotten better the second day after being irritated by chili peppers.

Apr 07, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Qingyun
Introduction
The hand remaining irritated the day after contact with chili peppers may be due to excessive stimulation, skin damage, chemical burns, allergic reactions, or skin infection. Appropriate symptomatic treatment is needed. The capsaicin in chili peppers can irritate the skin, potentially causing short-term symptoms such as redness, swelling, burning sensation, and itching.

If your hand remains irritated the day after contact with chili peppers, it may be due to excessive irritation, skin damage, chemical burns, allergic reactions, or skin infection. Appropriate treatment should be based on the specific cause. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Excessive Irritation

Capsaicin in chili peppers can irritate the skin, potentially causing temporary symptoms such as redness, swelling, a burning sensation, and itching. These symptoms usually subside over time. You can try rinsing the area with lukewarm water and applying a cold compress to relieve discomfort.

2. Skin Damage

If the skin on your hands is scratched or rubbed after exposure to capsaicin, it may lead to skin injuries such as broken skin or bleeding. The wound should be cleaned promptly, and under a doctor's guidance, antibacterial ointments such as mupirocin ointment or enoxacin cream may be applied for treatment.

3. Chemical Burn

Capsaicin in chili peppers is a chemical substance that may cause a chemical burn if exposure is prolonged or the pepper is extremely spicy. Symptoms typically include redness, swelling, pain, and a burning sensation, and recovery may take some time. In severe cases, medications such as erythromycin ointment or ciprofloxacin hydrochloride cream may be used under medical supervision.

4. Allergic Reaction

Some individuals may be allergic to capsaicin, resulting in allergic symptoms such as rashes, blisters, and intense itching. Under a doctor’s guidance, antihistamines like loratadine tablets or cetirizine tablets can be taken, along with topical treatments such as mometasone furoate cream or hydrocortisone butyrate cream.

5. Skin Infection

If the affected skin is not cleaned or disinfected promptly after chili exposure, bacterial infection may occur, leading to symptoms like redness, swelling, pain, and pus formation. Under medical advice, medications such as amoxicillin capsules or crotamiton cream may be used. It is also important to maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods in daily life.

Note: If your hand remains irritated the day after chili exposure, seek prompt medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.


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