User:Wiki-Pharaoh/Archives/July 2012/Aerosol burn article code

User:Olowe2011/Archives/July 2012/Aerosol burn article code
An aerosol burn is an injury to the skin caused by the pressurized gas within an aerosol spray cooling quickly causing a sudden drop in temperature sufficient enough to cause frostbite to the applied area. Recent medical studies have published an increase of this practice known as "frosting" in paediatric or teenage patients.

A process known as Adiabatic expansion causes the gas (with a low boiling temperature) to rapidly cool on exit from the Aerosol Applier. According to controlled laboratory experiments the gas from the typical Deodorant Spray can drop up to sixty degrees Celsius.

This form of injury causes freezing of the skin in which is considered to be frostbite. It is highly advised for those who suffer from frostbite to seek medical attention.

In rare cases Aerosol-induced burns can be severe enough for a skin graft to be used as treatment.

Causes
There are various causes of burns induced by Aerosol products, the most common of which derives from patients spaying deodorants for prolonged periods of time in close proximity to their skin. This practice is more common in younger persons / teenagers and can be referred to as "frosting" or having a "frosty". Injuries such as this are often self inflicted injury or self harm therefore depression should be considered as an underlining cause.

Symptoms
Depending on the length of exposure Aerosol-induced frostbite can vary in depth. Most injuries of this type only effect the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin) however, if contact with the aerosol is prolonged the skin will freeze further and effect deeper layers of tissue causing a more serious burn that reaches the dermis therefore destroying nerves and increasing the risk of infection and scarring. When the skin thaws (unfreezes), pain and severe discomfort can occur in the effected area. The listed symptoms may also be observed:
 * Smell of aerosol product(s) such as deodorant around the effected area.
 * The injury can be itching or painful.
 * Skin may freeze and become hardened.
 * Blisters may form on the area.
 * Flesh can become red and swollen.