$Unique_ID{BRK00540}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is Motor Oil a Proven Treatment for Burns?}
$Subject{burn first aid infection treatment accident accidents Skin bacteria
burns necrotic Motor Oil infections}
$Volume{O-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Motor Oil a Proven Treatment for Burns?


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QUESTION:  I work with an older man in a garage.  The other day, he burned his
arm on a hot exhaust pipe.  After a few unprintable words, he reached for an
emptied can of motor oil, and used the remaining drops to rub into his burn.
He claims that this is a treatment, one he has used successfully for years.  I
tend to believe him, do you?

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ANSWER:  I'll add your story to my list of "no-nos", but it is just one of the
many examples of tales of treatment that can lead to rather serious and
unwanted outcomes.  If he has been successful for years, he has also been
remarkably lucky.  I doubt that his "burn treatment" meets with the
requirements of sterility that applies to other types of medications that may
be used in promoting the healing that is so important after a minor burn.  A
burn, even a minor one, will damage tissue, and in many cases actually kill
the cells.  This dead (necrotic) tissue makes a perfect environment in which
bacteria, which are always present on the skin, can grow, producing infections
that may be extensive, serious and sometimes life threatening.  The proper
treatment for burns is to first apply cold, wet compresses or immerse the burn
in ice water.  This can retard the process of cell injury.  Then a sterile
burn cream may be applied to reduce swelling and pain.  If extensive blisters
develop, or skin has been burned away, professional treatment is indicated to
remove dead tissue and provide the right kind of dressing.  Auto oil belongs
in crankcases, not on people.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.