Burns
A burn can be either a minor problem or a life-threatening condition The most severe burns develop as a result of exposure to electricity or chemical substances The most common cause of burns in children is the infusion of boiling liquid
Sunburn or other minor burns can heal at home, but deep and extensive burns require immediate medical attention. Patients with severe burns often require treatment in special burn centers In case of large damage, skin grafting is sometimes necessary
After a burn, first of all it is necessary to pour cold water on the damaged area Ice is not recommended as it may further damage the burned tissue
Some substances cause burns, for example:
- Fire
- Hot liquid or steam
- Hot metal, glass or any other object
- Electric current
- Radiation associated with X-rays or cancer chemotherapy
- Sunlight or ultraviolet
- Chemical compounds such as strong acids, sodium hydroxide, paint thinner or gasoline
Burns do not damage the skin in the same way, so a single injury may reach different depths To distinguish minor burns from serious burns, it is necessary to determine the level of damage to body tissues There are four classifications of burns:
- First degree burns This type of burn damages only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) This injury causes redness and pain, which usually goes away in a few days or weeks with first aid A sunburn is a classic example of a first-degree burn
- Second degree burns Burns of this type damage both the epidermis and the second layer of the skin (dermis) and cause redness, pain and swelling. Second-degree burns often have a moist, wet appearance If blisters develop, the pain can be severe Deep second-degree burns sometimes cause scarring
- Third degree burns Burns that penetrate the fatty layer below the dermis are called third-degree burns. The skin may have a hardened, waxy white, leathery, or dewy appearance Third-degree burns can destroy nerves, causing numbness and tingling
- Fourth degree burns This is the most severe form of burn that affects tissues under the skin, such as muscle and bone. The skin may have a blackened or charred appearance If the nerve damage is very severe, you may not feel any pain at all
When to consult a doctor - Minor burns can be treated at home See your doctor if:
- You notice pain, redness, swelling, and discharge at the burn site
- Burn that does not heal within several weeks
- New, unexplained symptoms
- Seek medical attention if:
- Burn involves hands, feet, face, groin, buttock, or an important joint
- Developed by chemical or electrical agents
