Can you get frostbite from air can?

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In summary, the title of this article is catchy but the content is not very informative. The article talks about a rubber band fight where someone's boss sprayed them with a fire extinguisher. The article does not say if there is any possible damage to the ear due to the spray. The article also does not say how long it would take for damage to occur. The article does say that someone should get it checked out if they are concerned about any possible damage.
  • #1
mcknia07
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Ok, so the title is pretty catchy, lol, but anyways...

I was at work the other day and we had a rubberband fight (just playing around) and my boss joined in, and he got the spray air can (like the kind you spray your computers with to clean) and he shook the can and got the liquid stuff on me and the other lady I work with. I know on the can it says it can cause frost bite, but some of it got in our ears. Well, the other lady says her ear still kinda hurts, and it's been over a week now.

Do you know if there is anything either one of us can do?
 
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  • #2
The propellant can cause tissue damage if it comes in contact with skin or even more delicate tissues. Such sprays are never agitated, and are used in the proper orientation (usually with the base of the nozzle up and the nozzle horizontal) to blow away contaminants. I won't make judgments, but I would never agitate such a spray and then squirt it onto another person.
 
  • #3
Could there be serous ear damage done to her? She told me as we were leaving today, that its agitated still. I know a doctor will be able to tell for sure, but she doesn't want to do that yet, she wants to wait a bit, I think. I think she really needs to get it checked out/
 
  • #4
mcknia07 said:
Could there be serous ear damage done to her? She told me as we were leaving today, that its agitated still. I know a doctor will be able to tell for sure, but she doesn't want to do that yet, she wants to wait a bit, I think. I think she really needs to get it checked out/
Any suspected damage to sensitive tissues should be checked out ASAP. The longer that tissue-damage is neglected, the more chance for scarring or worse.
 
  • #5
Ok, I'll text her ASAP and tell her to get it checked soon.

Thanks for your help turbo!
 
  • #6
Can you say Darwin Awards?

Like people messing around spraying each other with fire extinguishers -- what happens when gas goes from high pressure to low pressure? What adverse tissue effects can result from exposure to that low-pressure gas?
 
  • #7
Hmm, I'm willing to bet, it's not all that good.
 
  • #8
inner ear or outer ear?
 
  • #9
Well, He only meant to spray it on the outer part of the ear (just messing around) and well...he might have got some on the inner ear. Though my co-worker didn't complain of her ear hurting today, so maybe a flase alarm.
 
  • #10
ah, well, outer ear damage, i'd just suck it up as tax for goofing off.
 

FAQ: Can you get frostbite from air can?

Can you actually get frostbite from air can?

Yes, it is possible to get frostbite from air can. Frostbite occurs when your skin and underlying tissues freeze due to exposure to extreme cold temperatures. Air cans, commonly used to clean electronics, contain compressed air that can reach temperatures as low as -63°C (-81°F). Exposure to this cold air can cause frostbite on exposed skin, especially if it is held too close to the skin for too long.

What are the symptoms of frostbite from air can?

The symptoms of frostbite from air can include numbness, tingling, burning, and pain in the affected area. The skin may also appear pale, gray, or blistered. In severe cases, the skin may turn black and the affected area may feel hard and cold to the touch.

How long does it take to get frostbite from air can?

The time it takes to get frostbite from air can depends on several factors, such as the temperature of the air can, the distance from the skin, and the duration of exposure. In general, it can take as little as 10 minutes for frostbite to occur if the air can is held very close to the skin for an extended period of time.

Can frostbite from air can be treated at home?

Yes, mild cases of frostbite from air can can be treated at home. The affected area should be warmed by immersing it in warm (not hot) water or by using warm compresses. It is important to avoid rubbing or massaging the area, as this can cause further damage. Severe cases of frostbite should be treated by a medical professional.

How can frostbite from air can be prevented?

The best way to prevent frostbite from air can is to use the product as directed and to always hold it at a safe distance from the skin. It is also important to avoid prolonged exposure and to take breaks if needed. Wearing gloves or other protective gear can also help prevent frostbite. If you start to experience numbness or discomfort while using an air can, stop immediately and warm up the affected area.

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