Exposure to water greater than 50°C can cause scald injury, with very hot water capable of scalding in a few seconds. The use of a sitz bath or bidet can result in scald burn of the perianeal region.
The key risk factor is the temperature of the water being used.
Risk factors:
(1) young children or elderly
(2) decreased sensation
(3) impaired mobility
Conditions that may be treated with a sitz bath:
(1) hemorrhoids
(2) perianal fissure
(3) perianal pruritis
Complications may include:
(1) adhesions
(2) anal stenosis
(3) infection
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