Why low-temperature burns?

The weather is getting colder and colder, and many people have prepared "heating artifacts" such as electric blankets, warm babies and hot water bottles. Experts remind that while keeping out the cold, we must pay attention to the correct use, and improper use of heating items may lead to cryogenic burns.

Low-temperature burn refers to chronic burn caused by long-term contact with low-heat objects above 45℃. For example, all kinds of heating items commonly used in winter, such as hot water bottles, warm babies, electric blankets, etc., may exceed 45 C, and prolonged contact with the skin may cause burns. If the contact time is particularly long, it may even cause serious burns. Chen Yan, deputy chief physician of the emergency department of Beijing Long Fu Hospital, said that this relatively low temperature has little stimulation to skin pain and is easily overlooked. Long-term contact may bake skin or even subcutaneous tissue.

Infants, the elderly, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, peripheral nerve injury, cerebral infarction and other people. And people who take sedative sleeping pills, get drunk, etc. When using these heating items, they are easy to be burned by low temperature. Chen Yan reminded that low-temperature burns often occur in human lower limbs, because the lower limbs feel dull, and low temperature has little stimulation to skin pain, which may lead to unconscious burns.

"The skin surface of low-temperature burns may look red, swollen, blistered, peeling or white, but the depth under the wound is deep, showing full-thickness skin necrosis, which can reach third-degree or even fourth-degree wounds. If it is not handled properly, it will fester in severe cases and will not heal for a long time. " Chen Yan reminded that if cryogenic burns occurs, you can wash the scalded area with cold towel or cold water for 15-20 minutes, which can relieve the pain and redness, and reduce the probability of blisters and scabs. Don't use toothpaste, earthwork, etc. to smear the affected area. And don't break the blisters right away. If the wound is deep, you should prevent pollution and seek medical attention in time. The doctor will judge the burn grade and deal with it.

When using heating items, you should choose regular manufacturers to buy products; The temperature of the hot water bottle should not be too high, and it should not directly touch the skin. Put a towel in the middle. Put sheets or blankets on the electric blanket to avoid direct contact with the human body. Turn off the electric blanket and other heating equipment before going to bed and use it intermittently. Don't use electric blankets, electric treasures, warm babies and other items at the same time; Hot items should not be placed in the same position on the body for a long time. People who are not sensitive to heat or can't clearly express their feelings, such as infants, are not recommended to use electric blankets. If you use them, it is recommended that you check your local skin frequently.