BURNS

Categories of burns
First, second and third degree.Categorization depends on severity of tissue damage Check extent of burn before deciding self treatment.Seek help if burn is over a couple of inches in diameter, or if it involves large sections of the hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or a major joint

First-degree burns
Injuries are superficial / mild, Swelling& redness of the injured area
Pain develops, No blisters seen, Burned area becomes white on touch
Takes 3-6 days to heal
Treatment Remove patient from heat source
Remove the burnt clothing
Run cool water over burnt area
Gently clean the injured area
Gently dry
Apply anti biotic such as Silver Sulphadiazine
Use a sterile bandage to cover burns
Take tetanus vaccination, if required

Second-degree burns
Burns extends to middle skin layer, dermis. Swelling, redness and pain observed
Burnt area may turn white on touch.Blisters develop, that ooze a clear fluid
Scars may develop, restricts movement, if injury occurs at joint
Dehydration may occur. Healing time varies, depends on extent of injury.
Treatment
Clean the affected area thoroughly
Gently dry
Apply antibiotic cream over affected area
Make the patient lie down
Keep burnt body part at a raised level
Skin graft may be required
Physical therapy may be essential to aid mobility
Splints may be used to rest affected joints
Hospitalization is essential

Third-degree burns
Damage occurs to all 3 skin layers. Destroys adjacent hair follicles, sweat glands, nerve endings,lack of pain due to destroyed nerves. Injured area does not turn white on touch. No blisters observed, Swelling occurs, Skin develops leathery texture, discoloration of skin observed. Scars develop, Crusty surfaces (Eschars) develop-impairs circulation. Dehydration occurs resulting in shock. Symptoms may worsen with time. Disfigurement may result, Healing depends on extent of injury.
Treatment
Requires immediate hospital care
Dehydration treated through intravenous fluid supply
Oxygen is administered
Eschars are surgically opened
Periodically run clean cool water over burns
Nutritious diet helps to heal quickly
Regular monitoring essential
Mental Depression treated by anti-depressants


For informational purpose only, for further advice contact qualified physician