Chemical Burns from Sodium Hydroxide: Treatment and Care Tips

Sodium hydroxide, chemical burn?

During a lab session, I accidentally came into contact with a small amount of sodium hydroxide (a strong alkaline chemical), estimated to be about 1 square centimeter in size.
The solid sodium hydroxide had deliquesced, and the high temperature caused a burn.
Initially, I did not notice it because it had not yet deliquesced, but when I discovered it, there was already a heating sensation.
At the time, it was inconvenient to wash with water, and since the pain was tolerable (similar to touching a scraped area), I did not address it immediately.
Afterward, the pain subsided, so I did not rinse it with water or take any related measures.
Upon returning home, I noticed that the wound was small, with a diameter of less than 1 centimeter, slightly swollen (similar to an ant bite), and there was a dark, scab-like substance on top.
The pain was not significant (much better than initially), and there are currently no blisters or ulcerations, which are typical symptoms of burns.
Should I just apply a topical burn ointment, or is it necessary to seek further evaluation, or should I just observe it for now?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/02

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to determine the issue.
If it is very concerning, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
A proper examination is necessary to understand the problem and to be able to address it.

Reply Date: 2017/06/02

More Info

Chemical burns, particularly those caused by sodium hydroxide (NaOH), can be serious and require immediate attention. Sodium hydroxide is a strong alkaline substance that can cause significant damage to skin and tissues upon contact. In your case, you experienced a minor burn from a small amount of solid sodium hydroxide, which can still lead to complications if not treated properly.

Immediate Treatment Steps
1. Rinse with Water: The first and most crucial step in treating a chemical burn is to rinse the affected area with copious amounts of water. Ideally, this should be done as soon as possible after the exposure. If you are unable to rinse immediately due to circumstances, it is essential to do so as soon as you can. Water helps to dilute the chemical and remove it from the skin, minimizing further damage.

2. Assess the Burn: After rinsing, assess the severity of the burn. Chemical burns can be classified into three degrees:
- First-degree burns: Affect only the outer layer of skin, causing redness and minor pain.

- Second-degree burns: Involve deeper layers of skin, leading to blisters and more intense pain.

- Third-degree burns: Extend through all layers of skin and may damage underlying tissues, often appearing white or charred.

Given your description of the burn being small, mildly swollen, and without blisters or open wounds, it seems to be a first-degree burn. However, the presence of a dark scab-like substance may indicate some degree of tissue damage, and it is essential to monitor the area for any changes.

3. Use of Topical Treatments: If the burn is indeed minor and classified as first-degree, applying a topical burn ointment or antibiotic cream may be beneficial. Products containing aloe vera or silver sulfadiazine can help soothe the skin and promote healing. However, avoid using any ointments on open wounds or severe burns without consulting a healthcare professional.

4. Observation: Since the pain has decreased and there are no signs of severe complications (like blisters or open wounds), you may choose to observe the burn for a few days. Keep the area clean and protected. If you notice any signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, pus, or worsening pain), seek medical attention promptly.

When to Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial to seek medical care if:
- The burn worsens or does not improve after a few days.

- You experience increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection.

- The burn area becomes larger or develops blisters.

- You have any concerns about the appearance of the burn or your overall health.

Conclusion
In summary, while your burn appears to be minor, it is essential to treat it properly to avoid complications. Rinse the area thoroughly with water, consider using a topical ointment, and monitor the burn for any changes. If you have any doubts or if the condition worsens, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. Remember, chemical burns can sometimes have delayed effects, so staying vigilant is key to ensuring proper healing.

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