A 14-year-old boy from Nghệ An, Vietnam, is struggling with severe burn injuries after using traditional remedies to treat his condition. The burn worsened, became infected, and resulted in tissue necrosis, putting his life at risk. This case serves as a stark warning about the dangers of self-treating burns with folk remedies.
Critical Condition of the Child
N.H.A. (14), was admitted to the Nghệ An Provincial Hospital for Children in a critical condition. The burn injuries, second-degree and third-degree burns, covered approximately 20% of his body, primarily affecting his chest, abdomen, thighs, and arms. The lesions had necrotized, turning black and dry, with pus-filled discharge. The child also had a thick layer of traditional medicine residue on the affected areas. The severe infection threatens the child’s life.
A 14-year-old boy suffering severe tissue necrosis from traditional burn treatment – 1
Cause: Self-Medication with Traditional Remedies
According to family accounts, after three days of treatment at the Nghệ An Provincial General Hospital, the boy’s family took him home and applied folk remedies prescribed by a local herbalist. Instead of improving, the condition worsened, causing increased pain and discharge. Self-treating with traditional remedies delayed proper medical treatment, leading to serious complications.
Medical Expert Advice
Dr. Thái Văn Bình, Head of the Burns, Trauma, and Plastic Surgery Department at Nghệ An Provincial Hospital for Children, stated that this situation is increasingly common. Since the beginning of 2023, the department has treated nearly 70 children with burn injuries, many of whom arrived at the hospital late due to self-treatment with folk remedies.
Dr. Bình emphasized that burns are serious injuries requiring professional and timely treatment. Applying folk remedies like oils, toothpaste, egg yolks, or herbal poultices to burn wounds can worsen infections, cause tissue necrosis, and lead to dangerous complications.
Preventing Burn Complications: Importance of First Aid and Professional Medical Care
The doctor recommends immediate first aid and prompt transportation to a specialized medical facility. Avoid attempting self-treatment with folk remedies, as these methods can worsen the condition and lead to infections.
Conclusion
The 14-year-old boy’s case highlights the importance of adhering to professional medical treatment for burn injuries. Prompt first aid and seeking specialized medical care are crucial for minimizing complications and protecting health.
