Seeking Advice on Self-Harm Burns Care - Is This Usual?
I apologize for posting this here and will gladly remove it if it's inappropriate. I’ve tried reaching out in other communities, but I didn’t receive much feedback or support, and it feels like my concerns were overlooked. I’m dealing with approximately ten second-degree burns from self-harm. I made the poor choice to remove the blisters myself. Unfortunately, I haven’t cleaned them yet—I realize I should have promptly rinsed them with cool water, but the pain has made that difficult. Currently, I lack any medical supplies, including saline solution, which is why I’m looking for guidance on how to care for these injuries. I won’t be able to obtain any supplies either. As a temporary measure, I’ve been using a sanitary, non-stick pad on them and then wrapping my arm in gauze. I’m a minor (14 years old), so I’d prefer not to hear suggestions about informing my parents. If it escalates, I will certainly let them know, but for now, there’s no need for them to be aware of my relapse. They are aware of my self-harm and are quite unsupportive; plus, financially, we can’t afford any treatments right now. The burns have been exuding a significant amount of yellow fluid and some pus, which is concerning to me. Is this normal? I’m anxious about potentially developing an infection since I’ve never experienced this kind of drainage from my burns before. Given that these injuries seem more severe than usual, I want to ensure I’m doing everything possible for their care and healing.
Answers (1)
7/4/2025, 6:30:56 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s important to address your concerns about your burns and provide guidance for compassionate and effective care. While you indicated a reluctance to involve parents or seek medical assistance, self-care is crucial to prevent complications like infection.
Main Points:
- Take immediate action to clean your burns properly.
- Monitor for signs of infection and manage symptoms.
- Focus on supporting healing with your current resources.
Explanation: Self-harm burns can indeed be painful and may require careful attention to prevent infection. Given that your wounds are oozing yellow fluid and pus, this can indicate possible infection. Second-degree burns impact both the outer and underlying skin layers, so proper care is essential for healing and reducing discomfort. Even though visiting a doctor may feel daunting, understanding how to manage your wounds at home can help you feel more in control and supported.
Next Steps:
-
Clean the Burns:
- If possible, gently rinse the affected areas with cool, clean water to remove any debris or bacteria. Use mild soap if it’s available to help cleanse them without scrubbing harshly.
- After rinsing, let the burns air dry.
-
Apply a Dressing:
- Continue using a non-stick pad to cover the burns, as this will protect them yet allow for drainage.
- Change the dressing at least once a day or if it becomes wet or soiled. Ensure the area is clean before applying a new dressing.
-
Observe for Infection:
- Keep an eye out for increased redness, swelling, warmth, or worsening pain around the wounds.
- Monitor the discharge; yellow or green pus is concerning and may indicate an infection.
-
Pain Management:
- If you can, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which can help decrease pain and inflammation. Just follow the instructions on the label for proper dosing.
-
Stay Hydrated and Nourished:
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat healthily to support your body’s healing process.
-
Consider Safe Coping Alternatives:
- Explore other ways to handle emotions or stress, such as journaling, art, or talking to a trusted friend or online support group.
Your health is important, and it's okay to seek help when you're feeling overwhelmed. Remember, there are individuals and resources out there that understand what you’re going through. If the situation worsens or you’re troubled by your mental health, I encourage you to consider reaching out to a professional over time.
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