How to treat a burn from hot oil
Dec 21, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
If a small area such as the hand or arm is burned, immediately rinse the affected area with cool running water to lower the skin temperature, alleviate pain, and reduce blister formation. If the burn is on an area such as the face where direct rinsing is not possible, apply a cold compress using a towel containing a cold towel or an ice pack. This can also help reduce temperature and relieve pain.
After being scalded by hot oil, a series of immediate first-aid measures should be taken to reduce injury and promote healing. These include rinsing with cool water, cold compress application, disinfection, medication application, and preventing infection. If signs of infection appear, such as redness and swelling, increased pain, or increased fluid discharge, timely medical attention should be sought. The detailed procedures are as follows:
1. Rinsing with cool water: If a small area such as the hand or arm is scalded, immediately rinse the affected area with cool running water to lower the skin temperature, alleviate pain, and reduce blister formation.
2. Cold compress: If the scalded area is on a region such as the face where direct rinsing is not feasible, a cold compress may be applied using a cold towel or ice wrapped in a towel. This can also help reduce temperature and relieve pain. The cold compress should be applied continuously for at least 15 to 30 minutes.
3. Disinfection: If blisters have formed or the wound has ruptured, avoid directly soaking the wound in cold water to prevent infection. Instead, use medical disinfectants such as alcohol or iodophor to clean the wound, and then apply an appropriate amount of burn ointment or antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
4. Medication application: After disinfecting the wound, apply an appropriate amount of compound snow lotus burn ointment, silver sulfadiazine cream, erythromycin ointment, or other medications as directed by a physician. These medications aid in removing dead tissue, relieving pain, and promoting wound healing.
5. Preventing infection: During the healing process, keep the wound clean and dry, and avoid contact with water or other contaminants. Additionally, regularly change the dressing and reapply medication to prevent infection.
During the healing period, dietary adjustments are also important. Consume more foods rich in protein and vitamins, such as lean meat, eggs, milk, and fresh vegetables, to promote wound healing and recovery. Avoid eating spicy, irritating, or greasy foods that may delay wound healing.
