Chili Pepper Burns

Chili pepper burns are caused by an irritating substance found in the skin of the pepper. On the skin, this burn can feel like a sunburn, a throbbing and prickling feeling, or a very intense, hot pain. The substance can cause a burning sensation in the mouth and can cause nausea, vomiting, pain, and diarrhea if swallowed. If the substance is inhaled, like from pepper spray, it can cause an asthma attack or respiratory problems. If the eyes are affected, there may be pain, redness, and tearing.

The best treatment for a skin burn is to wash the area with soap and water and then put vegetable oil, a cloth soaked in diluted vinegar, or an antacid (like Maalox) on the area for at least an hour. If the burning feeling is on your hands, dip your hands in vegetable oil for the hour.

To treat a burning sensation in the mouth, try small sips of milk or water.

If the eye has been affected, wash it with a large amount of warm water for 15 minutes. You can also try putting cool cloths on the eyes.

If the substance was inhaled and there's any trouble breathing or chest pain, call 911 right away.