Treatment Of Acid Attacks

HOW TO TREAT ACID ATTACKS?

The most important thing you can do in the event of an acid attack is to douse the victim in running water instead of using a wet cloth. The water dilutes the acid, so it is important to refresh yourself with new, clean water as soon as possible. It is vital to convey that people do not become secondary victims.

If you see someone who has been exposed to acid, don’t try to brush it off with your hands or you will burn yourself. If the substance is in powder form, simply wipe it away and use a piece of clothing to protect your skin. And it’s not just acidic fluids that are used in attacks – very basic substances can also be used.

Alkaline powders that become wet can suddenly begin to react. It is important to avoid becoming a secondary victim in the first place, call for help and call 911, and if water is available, use it to dilute the acid.

Campaign group Stop Acid Attacks advise people to follow these guidelines, in the event they are the victim of, or witness an acid attack:

Immediately flush the affected area with fresh water or saline (salt water) solution – always ensure that this source is not contaminated
Continue washing the burned body part with cold water until the pain begins to subside. This may take about 45 minutes
Remove any clothing/jewelry that has come into contact with the acid
As tempting as it is to add milk to provide some relief, this may affect the treatment prescribed by doctors
Wrap the burned area if possible, loosely in sterilized gauze, which helps to prevent the wound
After hospital treatment, patients are advised to adhere to a strict aftercare regime – including regular dressing changes
In severe cases, doctors may prescribe physiotherapy to victims whose nervous system is affected by the burn
Others are offered skin grafts to help reduce the symptoms and cosmetic signs of the attack
Because acid attacks are traumatic, patients may also be advised to seek psychological support

WHAT NOT TO DO IN CASE OF AN ACID ATTACK?

You may think that milk can be a soothing remedy in case of a heartburn, but experts say it’s a bad idea. Milk is generally alkaline, although it becomes more acidic as it matures.

When alkaline milk comes into contact with acid, it causes an exothermic reaction, which creates more heat and can cause more damage.

In addition, milk can increase the risk of infections. So always stick to plenty of running water.