What should I do if my hands are burned by chili peppers?
Disease description:
The chili peppers I bought were very spicy. When cutting them, the juice got onto my fingers, causing a severe burning pain. The pain hasn't improved even after several days. May I ask, what should I do if chili burns my hands?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
When cutting chili peppers, if you accidentally get chili on your hands, you should immediately stop handling the peppers and rinse the affected area thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual capsaicin. If you experience significant pain or burning sensation, you may try applying acidic substances such as vinegar or lemon juice to the affected skin, as capsaicin is more easily broken down in an acidic environment, which may help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, applying a cold compress using ice cubes or an ice pack can help reduce redness and pain. If available at home, topical ointments or antiallergic medications may also be applied appropriately to the affected area to relieve discomfort. During this time, you should avoid rubbing your eyes or touching other sensitive areas to prevent the spread of capsaicin. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek prompt medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional. Furthermore, when handling chili peppers in the future, wearing gloves or using other protective measures can help prevent similar incidents.
