Hydrogen Peroxide
About Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Peroxide belongs to the group of topical antiseptics with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is used to prevent infections occurring due to open scrapes, cuts, and wounds. Hydrogen Peroxide is also used in the treatment of leg ulcers and pressure sores. Venous ulcers (leg ulcers) are caused due to pooling of blood in the leg veins. Pressure sores are sores caused by lying or sitting in the same position for a long period.
Hydrogen Peroxide contains ‘’Hydrogen Peroxide’’ that works by liberating oxygen when applied to the affected area. The released oxygen froths and foams, help in cleaning the area of application. Hydrogen Peroxide also functions by producing destructive free radicals of oxygen that attack the pathogen’s cell membrane and DNA, and thus destroy the pathogen and arrest the progression of the disease.
Hydrogen Peroxide should be used as advised by your doctor. It is an external preparation. Hence, avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. In case of accidental use, wash it thoroughly and inform your doctor. Wash your hands before applying the Hydrogen Peroxide. In some cases, Hydrogen Peroxide may cause certain side effects such as temporary stinging or redness. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your physician if you experience these side effects consistently.
Hydrogen Peroxide should be avoided if you are allergic to it or any of its components. Let your doctor know about your entire medical history including any other topical medications or oral medicines, herbs, or vitamins you may be using. Avoid using Hydrogen Peroxide for more than 3 weeks at a stretch. Do not use Hydrogen Peroxide on large, deep wounds or healthy, intact skin. Hydrogen Peroxide is not meant to be used as an enema or as a laundry detergent. Note that Hydrogen Peroxide may bleach fabrics. Consult your physician before using Hydrogen Peroxide during pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding.
Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide
Medicinal Benefits
Hydrogen Peroxide is a topical agent that has antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It contains Hydrogen Peroxide. Hydrogen Peroxide is used to cleanse the area it’s applied to and to prevent any further infection of the open cut, scrape, or wound. Hydrogen Peroxide functions as an antiseptic by virtue of its bacteria and fungus-killing nature. Hydrogen peroxide acts against various bacteria, viruses, fungi, yeast, and spores. Hydrogen Peroxide works by liberating oxygen when applied to the affected area. The released oxygen froths and foams help in cleaning the area of application. Hydrogen Peroxide also shows emulsifying qualities that help its surface action, thereby relieving itching, redness, inflammation, and irritation of the skin. Hydrogen Peroxide is hence used to treat surface-level itches, leg sores, pressure sores, skin breaks, and superficial infections.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide
- Transient redness
- Stinging
- Irritation and itching at the site of application
- Appearance of a thin film post-application
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Leg Ulcer: Leg ulcers are also called venous ulcers. They occur when blood circulation in the leg is compromised, causing blood to pool in the veins of the leg. They are characterised by pain, swelling and skin redness.
Pressure Sores: Sores caused by sitting or lying down in one position for a prolonged period of time are called pressure sores. Bed sores that happen in the elderly are an example of the same.
FAQs
Hydrogen Peroxide works by exerting an antiseptic effect and killing infection-causing pathogens, thereby relieving the skin of any infection.
Hydrogen Peroxide is suitable for all skin types if recommended. A dry film may appear on the site of application post-application. This is quite normal. It can be removed with a little water. In case of any concerns, you may speak to your dermatologist before using.
It is not advisable to cover the skin with any tight clothing after applying Hydrogen Peroxide. Try to keep it bare for some time at least. Also, Hydrogen Peroxide may bleach fabrics so exercise caution.
Spicy foods, food items with sharp edges, a highly acidic diet, stress, teenage and braces or other orthodontic appliances are all risk factors for mouth ulcers.