Do you know what the largest organ in your body is? It's your skin! And if you're a small person (baby, child, etc.), there isn't that much skin to go around. So a burn can be extremely damaging, especially to a child.
When it comes to burns, degree has nothing to do with temperature. The terms first-, second-, and third-degree identify the severity of a burn. Of those, first-degree is the least harmful, and third-degree is the most dangerous and harmful.
- First-degree burns are red and painful. They swell a little. They turn white when you press on the skin. The skin over the burn may peel off after 1 or 2 days.
- Thicker burns, called second-degree burns, have blisters and are painful. The skin is very red or splotchy, and it may swell a lot.
- Third-degree burns cause damage to all layers of the skin. The burned skin looks white or charred. These burns may cause little or no pain because the nerves in the skin are damaged.
What should you do if you or someone you are with is burned?
The treatment depends on what kind of burn involved. If a first- or second-degree burn covers an area larger than 2 to 3 inches in diameter, or is on your face, hands, feet or genitals, you should see a doctor right away. Third-degree burns require emergency medical attention. Dial 9-1-1 and be prepared to give your exact location, describe the burn, and do what the emergency operator tells you to do. IMPORTANT: Do not put butter, oil, ice or ice water on burns. This can cause more damage and will put the patient at risk.
For a First Degree Burn that is small:
Soak the burn in cool (not cold) water. Then treat it with a skin care product like aloe vera cream or an antibiotic ointment. To protect the burned area, you can put a dry gauze bandage over the burn. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (one brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (several noted brand names: Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (brand name: Aleve), to help with the pain.
For a Second Degree Burn that is small:
Soak the burn in cool (not cold) water for approximately five minutes. You may use an antibiotic cream, or other creams or ointments prescribed by your doctor. Cover the burn with a dry nonstick dressing (for example, Telfa) held in place with gauze or tape. Check with your doctor's office to make sure you are up-to-date on tetanus shots. Regardless, do not treat even a seemingly small burn completely on your own.Speak with a doctor, to ensure you're up-to-date on the latest treatment techniques.
Change the dressing every day. First, wash your hands with soap and water. Then gently wash the burn and put antibiotic ointment on it. If the burn area is small, a dressing may not be needed during the day. Check the burn every day for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling or pus. If you see any of these signs, see your doctor right away. To prevent infection, avoid breaking any blisters that form.
Burned skin itches as it heals. Keep your fingernails cut short and don't scratch the burned skin. The burned area will be sensitive to sunlight for up to one year. Remember, if you don't treat the burn properly, a permanent scar may result.
For a Third Degree Burn (any size):
Dial 9-1-1.
If you aren't certain about the degree of the burn or the severity of the injury:
Dial 9-1-1
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