Why does alcohol burn on open wounds? Like what chemical process is making our pain receptors go off?
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VR1 is a receptor on some cells that, among other things, detects the sensation of scalding heat. It is believed that ethanol, the common drinking alcohol, lowers the activation threshold of this receptor. The raised body temperature from the inflammation caused by the wound is then enough to trigger the receptor, which causes the burning sensation of intense heat. Capsaicin, the spicy chemical in chili peppers, also triggers this receptor, which is why spicy substances burn in a similar way when they come in contact with wounds.
Alcohol has a strange property where it causes the receptors for heat in your skin and mouth to become more sensitive.
These receptors (VR1) normally trigger at around 42C, but alcohol causes them to trigger at around body temperature.
So the heat you are feeling is actually your own body temperature.
What others said about VR1 but also, alcohol is causing hydrolysis on weak cells, so you’re feeling damage.
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