What are the causes of burns and scalds?

Burns and scalds can result from contact with high-temperature liquids, hot solids, high-temperature gases, chemical irritants, electric sparks, or flames. If the burn or scald covers a large area, is deep, or accompanied by severe pain, immediate medical attention is required.

1. Contact with high-temperature liquids: Hot liquids such as boiling water, hot soup, hot oil, or hot tea splashing onto or touching the skin can rapidly transfer heat, causing damage to skin tissue. This commonly occurs during cooking in the kitchen or using hot water at home. The longer the contact time, the more severe the injury.

2. Contact with high-temperature solids: Direct contact of the skin with hot objects—such as uncooled iron pans, oven walls, hot water bottles, or irons—can cause burns due to thermal conduction. Children are especially vulnerable; delayed reactions upon accidental contact may lead to more serious injuries.

3. Exposure to high-temperature gases: Skin contact with hot gases such as steam or hot air releases heat and causes scalding. This often happens when steam leaks from pressure cookers or steam ovens, or when near hot air exhaust from high-temperature equipment. Such scalds may also involve damage to respiratory mucosa.

4. Chemical irritation: Corrosive chemicals such as strong acids, strong alkalis, disinfectants, and pesticides can destroy skin tissue through chemical reactions upon contact, resulting in chemical burns. The severity depends on the concentration of the chemical and duration of exposure.

5. Electric sparks or flame exposure: Direct contact with flames from lighters, electric sparks caused by short circuits, or fires ignited by gas leaks can lead to burns. If flames spread, they may cause extensive and deep burns, sometimes accompanied by skin carbonization.

For daily care, keep the burned or scalded area clean and dry, avoiding friction or pressure on the wound. For mild scalds, apply prescribed specialized burn ointment as directed by a doctor. Maintain a light diet rich in protein to support wound healing, and closely monitor the wound for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. Seek prompt medical care if any abnormalities occur.