How can you care for yourself when you have a chemical burn?
When a chemical burn occurs, find out what chemical caused the burn. Call a Poison Control Center right away for more information about how to treat the burn. When you call the Poison Control Center, have the chemical container with you, so you can read the contents label to the Poison Control staff member. Then call your doctor if needed.
Most chemical burns are treated first by rinsing (flushing) the chemical off your body with a large amount of water. But not all chemicals are treated this way. It's important to treat the burn correctly to avoid further problems.
Chemical burns in children: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child's pain gets worse.
- Your child has symptoms of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the burn.
- Pus draining from the burn.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- The burn is not getting better each day.
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