Can I drink alcohol if my finger is scalded?

Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
Updated on December 07, 2024
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Burns on the fingers are not directly related to drinking alcohol, so it is still possible to drink a small amount of alcohol after burning your fingers. However, from a health perspective, it is best to avoid drinking alcohol. The primary concern with finger burns is the treatment of the burns: frequent disinfection and dressing changes are necessary to protect the burn site and prevent infection. Additionally, it is beneficial for the recovery of the soft tissue to minimize the movement of the burned fingers. Moving the burned fingers might lead to tearing of the soft tissues and bleeding, which can prolong the recovery time of the burn.

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Written by Chen Xiao Jun
Emergency Department
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What should I do about the dead skin from a burn on my finger?

Generally, after a finger is scalded, damage occurs to the skin's soft tissues, and some of the skin may necrotize. Once necrosis sets in, the blood supply to the affected area becomes poor. At this point, it is necessary for the body to promptly remove this dead skin. It is best to have debridement under the guidance of a physician to remove the necrotic skin and soft tissue; otherwise, these necrotic tissues can easily become infected, which in turn can cause harm to the body. Therefore, after necrosis occurs following a finger scald, it is advisable to immediately visit the emergency department of a hospital for debridement. Removing the necrotic tissue and performing proper dressing and disinfection will promote the rapid recovery and healing of the skin tissues.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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Why does a burn from oil swell?

Being scalded by oil belongs to high-temperature burns, which can cause degeneration and necrosis of skin and tissues, followed by an inflammatory reaction leading to the leakage of fluids and localized swelling. Additionally, in a high-temperature state, local blood vessels will dilate. This dilation can lead to congestion, and the increased pressure causes water to seep into the tissues, thus causing localized swelling. Therefore, after being scalded by oil, it is necessary to rinse with cold water for at least 30 minutes, or until the pain eases, to lower the local temperature, reduce pain and swelling, and alleviate symptoms. Furthermore, when necessary, disinfection and protection measures should be taken, and cold compresses can be applied to reduce swelling.

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Written by Wang Xiang Li
Emergency Medicine
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Do you need to take medicine for a burn on your hand?

Whether medication is needed after a burn depends on the individual. If a hand is burned, it should first be rinsed under running tap water or soaked for at least half an hour. If the skin is not broken, it can be disinfected with iodine and then burn ointment may be applied. If there is blistering and the skin is broken, indicating a severe burn, larger blisters should be punctured at the base with a sterile needle and the fluid can be pressed out with a cotton swab while preserving the overlying skin. Then, sterile gauze should be used daily to re-dress the wound. If the burned area is oozing and the pain is significant, oral anti-bacterial and pain relief medications can be taken. If not allergic to cephalosporins, a cephalosporin antibiotic can be taken. For pain, ibuprofen can be used. If the burn is severe, it is necessary to seek timely medical treatment. (Please follow medical advice regarding medication.)

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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Should the burned skin on the finger be cut off?

Whether to cut off the skin after a finger burn depends on the specific circumstances and cannot be generalized. It depends on the cause of the finger burn. If the burn is caused by relatively clean boiling water, the skin does not need to be cut off after disinfection. The skin acts as a protective layer, similar to a dressing, which can reduce contact with foreign objects and minimize damage to the burn from external particles or foreign objects, therefore providing certain protection. However, if the burn is caused by contaminated substances, such as lime, and the finger is contaminated, the previously burned skin should be cut off. After cleaning, it is considered a foreign object that could potentially worsen an infection.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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Do you need to disinfect every day after a burn?

Whether daily disinfection is necessary after a burn depends on the condition of the burn. If it is a minor burn with only superficial reddening, it is not necessary to disinfect daily after the initial treatment on the first day. If the burn is more severe and blisters have formed, it is recommended to disinfect daily, apply burn ointment, and cover with a dressing to prevent infection. Additionally, it is advised to drink plenty of water, eat fresh vegetables and fruits, consume high-protein and nutritious foods to promote healing of the burn, and avoid spicy and irritating foods.