What can result from excessive cooling of a larger burn area?

Excessive cooling of a larger burn area can lead to hypothermia and shock. When the body is exposed to cold for prolonged periods, especially over a large surface area, it can fail to maintain its core temperature. This is particularly concerning in the case of larger burns, where the skin’s ability to regulate temperature is compromised. The body loses heat more rapidly, which can lead to a drop in core body temperature.

Hypothermia can be dangerous, as it affects the body’s metabolic processes and impairs the functioning of vital organs. Shock, particularly hypovolemic shock, can occur as the body struggles to cope with the loss of blood volume and heat. As a result, while some may think cooling a burn is helpful, it's crucial to manage it carefully to prevent further complications such as these.

Other options do not address the significant risks associated with excessive cooling. Increased pain is common with burns but is not specifically a result of cooling; faster healing is unlikely since healing is a complex biological process that is not accelerated by excessive cooling; and while reduction in swelling is a consideration with some injuries, excessive cooling does not facilitate this effect for larger burn areas.