Contact with giant hogweed can result in serious burns that may not appear immediately, and the plant is especially dangerous in hot weather. Candidate of medical sciences, allergist, and director of the Kyiv Allergology Center "Allergologist" Maryna Borysiuk explained in greater detail how dangerous giant hogweed is and what to do in the event of contact with the plant.
Details
Today, giant hogweed can be found in many regions of Ukraine, and it is especially abundant in the Carpathians. According to the doctor, back in Soviet times it was deliberately cultivated as a fodder crop; however, after the corresponding livestock breeds disappeared, the plant remained and began to spread actively.
I want to emphasize right away: what giant hogweed causes is not an allergy, but a burn. Its sap contains a substance called furanocoumarin, which becomes dangerous only when combined with ultraviolet radiation. If the sap gets on the skin at night and is quickly washed off, nothing will happen. But during the day, when there is sunlight, so-called phytophotodermatitis occurs, in which the skin is damaged by the plant and sunlight
The doctor explains that after contact with the plant, the reaction may be either immediate or delayed. In any case, it is important not to waste time in such a situation and to provide first aid properly.
Symptoms may not appear immediately, but even after 48 hours. The first thing to do is thoroughly wash off the sap with plenty of water. After that, be sure to cover the affected area from the sun with fabric, clothing, a scarf—anything that will prevent ultraviolet radiation from reaching the skin for at least the first 24 hours. Under no circumstances should you rub the skin with a washcloth or other means
According to the allergist, the greatest danger is posed not even by redness, but by deep skin damage. Burns may be accompanied by severe pain, the formation of large blisters, and prolonged healing.
"The main complication is a massive burn with deep tissue damage. Large blisters appear and then burst, leaving a large erosive surface. It can become infected, and the pain may be so severe that a person cannot even hold a toothbrush in their hands. Such burns are treated just as seriously as thermal burns," the doctor explained.
The doctor explained that the first symptoms of injury may include itching and redness, which gradually intensify; later, the skin swells and large blisters form on its surface.
"First, itching occurs, followed by redness and pain, and a large blister quickly forms. This is already a reason to seek medical attention immediately. Especially if a child has been affected, since treatment may require not only ointments but also more serious therapy. The treatment approach is always determined by a doctor after an examination," Maryna Borysiuk emphasized.
Moreover, it turns out that even after the burns have healed, they can continue to serve as a reminder for a long time, so it is better to avoid contact with the plant than to deal with such consequences later.
"Such burns take a very long time to heal. Special ointments to restore the skin are often needed, and sometimes hormonal medications and meticulous wound care are required. Brown spots may remain for a long time after recovery. The visual consequences do not disappear immediately," the expert noted.
Maryna Borysiuk also drew attention to the most common mistakes people make after contact with giant hogweed.
You must not rub the skin with sand, a washcloth, or any abrasive products—this will only make the situation worse. Another mistake is thinking that it is enough to take antihistamines or apply an antiallergic ointment. In the case of giant hogweed, this is not enough, because it is a toxic burn that requires entirely different treatment
To avoid dangerous consequences, the doctor advises learning in advance what giant hogweed looks like, especially before traveling to regions where it is widespread. It is also important to explain to children that they must not touch this plant, even out of curiosity. The expert emphasizes that awareness and caution remain the best means of protection.
"Show your child a photo of giant hogweed before going out into nature. If they see a tall plant with a large white inflorescence, tell them not to touch it or try to pick it. It is better to call an adult immediately. This is simple advice that can protect them from very serious consequences," Marina Borysiuk concluded.
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