An acid burn is a type of chemical injury that occurs when strong acids come into contact with the skin, eyes, or other body tissues, causing damage through corrosive action.
How it happens:
Acids react with the proteins and water in body tissues, leading to cell damage and tissue destruction.
Common causes:
- Exposure to strong acids like sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), hydrochloric acid (HCl), or nitric acid (HNO₃)
- Industrial accidents or laboratory mishandling
- Improper use of cleaning agents containing acids
Symptoms of an acid burn:
- Pain and irritation
- Redness or darkening of the skin
- Blisters or peeling
- In severe cases, deep tissue damage
Severity levels:
- Mild burns: Affect only the outer skin layer
- Severe burns: Can penetrate deeper tissues and cause permanent damage
Basic first aid:
- Immediately rinse the affected area with plenty of clean water for at least 10–15 minutes
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Avoid applying chemicals without proper knowledge
- Seek medical attention for serious burns
In simple terms:
An acid burn is damage to the body caused by contact with a corrosive acid, and it requires immediate washing and proper treatment.