Types of burn injuries: Dr Prativa Shrestha

Burn injuries can happen by direct exposure to fire, hot liquid, steam, and contact with a hot object, harsh chemicals, or electricity. The size of the burn and its depth are two important crucial factors in selecting the modalities of its treatment.

The burn depth depends on which part of the body is affected and the nature of the burning agent such as what caused it, and how long it remained in contact with the skin.

Burn can be classified into three types depending on its depth.

First-degree burn: Affect the top layer of skin, called the epidermis. Skin appears red with mild swelling and some pain on the touch. It can be treated at home.

Second-degree burn: It affects up to the second layer of skin, called the dermis. These burns are often painful with blisters. It usually heals with skin discoloration.

Third-degree burn: The damage is through the skin and may be up to underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. Affected areas look whitish- greyish dry and leathery. It is the most severe form requiring surgical treatment. There may be no pain in the deeper burn as the nerve endings under the skin are destroyed.

The second and third-degree burn requires immediate medical attention without a delay. However, the first-degree or superficial burn can be treated with first aid at home and subsequent medical care if needed.

Here are some first aid tips that you need to follow at home in case of a minor superficial burn;

• Cool the burn for about 10mins or until the pain subsides by immediately immersing the burn in cool tap water or applying cold, wet compresses.
•  Apply petroleum jelly twice or thrice daily to prevent the drying of the affected areas. Do not apply ointments, toothpaste, or butter to the burn, as these may cause an infection. Do not apply topical antibiotics.
•  If you need to cover the burn, always choose a nonadherent sterile bandage.
•  Do not pop the blister or if it pops then don't denude the blister roof. Care must be taken that the blistered skin remains to cover its base, as it works like a natural biologic dressing that aids in healing and prevents contamination.
•  Consider taking over-the-counter pain medicine.
• Protect the area from the sun with sunscreen or clothing after the burn heals to prevent discoloration.

Contact Details:

Dr. Prativa Shrestha: MD, Dermatologist at Glow Skin and Dental Clinic

Location: Thadodunga, Dhobighat

Email: [email protected]

https://www.glowskindental.com/

Contact No.: 9745615656, 9828915936