Burned by Exhaust Pipe: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Burned by the exhaust pipe two days ago..?

Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about a burn injury on my calf caused by an exhaust pipe.
The skin has peeled off, and there is some yellow, sticky fluid leaking.
Initially, I lightly cleaned the area with an alcohol swab.
Following the pharmacist's advice, I applied a thick layer of burn ointment.
The next day, I changed the dressing with gauze before going out, and by the afternoon, I noticed that the wound had changed from white to a blood-red color (it looks somewhat like exposed flesh).
The wound is also slightly swollen, and the amount of fluid leaking has increased compared to the amount when I changed the dressing in the morning.
Should I go to the hospital for this, or should I continue applying the ointment? Additionally, can I rinse the wound with clean water or saline solution?

Yizhen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/04

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery

Burns generally require a consultation with a physician.
If assessed and found to be non-problematic, self-treatment with topical medication is acceptable.
It is best to clean the area with saline solution.

Reply Date: 2015/09/04

More Info

When it comes to burns, especially those caused by hot surfaces like an exhaust pipe, it's crucial to assess the severity of the injury and determine the appropriate course of action. Based on your description, it sounds like you have sustained a second-degree burn, which typically involves damage to both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the underlying layer (dermis). This type of burn can be characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and the presence of blisters or fluid.

Given that your burn has progressed to a point where the skin has peeled away and you are experiencing an increase in fluid discharge, along with a change in color to a blood-red hue, it is advisable to seek medical attention. The fact that the wound is exuding a yellow, viscous fluid could indicate a potential infection or complications that require professional evaluation. Infections can occur when the skin barrier is compromised, and they may lead to further complications if not treated promptly.

In terms of wound care, while it is important to keep the area clean, using alcohol wipes initially may not have been the best choice, as alcohol can irritate the wound and delay healing. Instead, gentle cleansing with lukewarm water or saline solution is recommended. Saline solution is particularly beneficial as it is isotonic and helps to cleanse the wound without causing additional irritation.

When it comes to dressing the wound, it is essential to use a sterile, non-stick dressing to protect the area from further injury and contamination. Thick application of burn ointments can be beneficial, but it is crucial to monitor the wound closely for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus-like discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if the pain worsens, you should definitely seek medical care.

In summary, based on your symptoms and the changes in your burn, I strongly recommend that you visit a healthcare provider. They can assess the wound more thoroughly, provide appropriate treatment, and prescribe any necessary medications, such as antibiotics if an infection is present. Additionally, they can offer guidance on proper wound care moving forward to promote healing and prevent complications.

In the future, for any burn injuries, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If you are ever in doubt about the severity of a burn or if it appears to be worsening, seeking medical attention is the safest course of action. Remember, timely intervention can make a significant difference in the healing process and overall outcome.

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