Flash burn

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Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Flash burn
File:342-usaf-11034 Medical Aspects-Hiroshima.webm
Synonyms	Welder's flash, arc eye
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Eye pain, redness, tearing, photophobia, blurred vision
Complications	Corneal ulcer, infection
Onset	Within a few hours of exposure
Duration	Usually 1-2 days
Types	N/A
Causes	Ultraviolet light exposure
Risks	Welding, tanning beds, snow blindness
Diagnosis	Slit lamp examination
Differential diagnosis	Conjunctivitis, foreign body in the eye
Prevention	Use of protective eyewear
Treatment	Lubricating eye drops, antibiotic ointment, pain relief
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Common in certain occupations
Deaths	N/A

Flash burn is a type of burn that is caused by intense, rapid exposure to heat or light. This can occur from a variety of sources, such as explosions, fireworks, or sunburn. Flash burns can be very serious, and may require immediate medical attention.

Causes

Flash burns are typically caused by an intense, rapid exposure to heat or light. This can occur from a variety of sources, including:

• Explosions: Explosions can produce a large amount of heat and light in a very short amount of time, which can cause flash burns.
• Fireworks: Fireworks can also produce a large amount of heat and light in a short amount of time, and can cause flash burns if they are not handled properly.
• Sunburn: Sunburn is a type of flash burn that is caused by overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a flash burn can vary depending on the severity of the burn, but may include:

• Pain: This is often the first symptom of a flash burn. The pain may be severe and can last for several hours or even days.
• Redness: The skin may become red and swollen.
• Blisters: In severe cases, blisters may form on the skin.
• Peeling skin: As the burn heals, the skin may begin to peel.

Treatment

Treatment for flash burns typically involves relieving pain, preventing infection, and promoting healing. This may include:

• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be used to help manage pain.
• Cool compress: Applying a cool compress to the burn can help to reduce pain and swelling.
• Antibiotic ointment: This can help to prevent infection.
• Bandage: A sterile bandage may be applied to the burn to protect it and promote healing.

Prevention

Prevention of flash burns involves taking precautions when in situations where there is a risk of intense, rapid exposure to heat or light. This may include:

• Wearing protective clothing and eyewear when handling fireworks or in situations where there is a risk of explosion.
• Applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing when in the sun to prevent sunburn.

See also

• Burn
• Explosion
• Fireworks
• Sunburn

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