What Causes Persistent Irritation On Lower Calf After Second Degree Hot Oil Burn?

Posted on Thu, 24 Jul 2014

Question: I am recovering from a second degree hot oil burn on my upper shin which occurred 3 months ago. The burn area extended up to my lower kneecap. The upper half appears to be recovering well (no unusual skin conditions apparent or scarring) but the lower half, which was somewhat more severely burned has become persistently irritated (~3 week). It is red, often raising up into small blisters around the hair follicles. It remains very red, and becomes scaly. What can I do to prevent the irritation?

Answered by Dr. T Shobha Deepak (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It's due to post burs persistent inflammation

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare-Magic
Greetings of the day

The cause of your symptoms is due to persistent post burn inflammation. It has also lead to telangiectasia and persistent erythema. This increased local vascularity is cause of symptoms. This post burn inflammation normally make take months to settle down.

I would suggest you the following
1. Local application of mild steroid ointment like Mometasone twice a day
2. Rest of the time apply either liquid paraffin or any aloe Vera based moisturising ointment.
3. Antihistamines like cetrizine taken for 15 days will be helpful

Do not scratch the area . Wear loose clothing over the affected area. Avoid jeans or tight clothing.

Do keep me updated about progress.

Take care

Best regards
Dr T Shobha Deepak
MBBS, MD

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar