How To Treat A Radiation Burn

Gently Wash With Soap And Water

A patient with radiation burns needs to do what they can to prevent the development of an infection in the ulcers, blisters, or sores, which includes gently washing the area with soap and water. When washing areas affected by radiation burns, a patient can reduce the discomfort and pain by using lukewarm water instead of very cold or hot water. When washing the affected area, the patient should not allow the water from the sink faucet or shower to fall directly on the affected skin. Patients with radiation burns are advised not to use any sort of soap or shower gels with strong fragrances or exfoliating agents in them. Fragrance-free antibacterial soaps are best to use when there are raw parts to the radiation burn, and fragrance-free soaps with added moisturizing mechanisms are good for areas that are not raw. The use of sponges, washcloths, brushes, or any type of loofa should be avoided, as bacteria can grow and colonize on these shower tools easily.