Burns are one of the most common household injuries, especially among
children. The term “burn” means more than the burning sensation
associated with this injury. Burns are characterized by severe skin damage
that causes the affected skin cells to die.
Most people can recover from burns without serious health consequences,
depending on the cause and degree of injury. More serious burns require
immediate emergency medical care to prevent complications and death.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS ?
Burn symptoms vary depending on how deep the skin damage is. It can take a day
or two for the signs and symptoms of a severe burn to develop.
ï‚· 1st-degree burn. This minor burn affects only the outer layer of the skin
(epidermis). It may cause redness and pain.
ï‚· 2nd-degree burn. This type of burn affects both the epidermis and the second
layer of skin (dermis). It may cause swelling and red, white or splotchy skin.
Blisters may develop, and pain can be severe. Deep second-degree burns can
cause scarring.
ï‚· 3rd-degree burn. This burn reaches to the fat layer beneath the skin. Burned
areas may be black, brown or white. The skin may look leathery. Third-degree
burns can destroy nerves, causing numbness.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
ï‚· Burns that cover the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks, a major joint or a large
area of the body
ï‚· Deep burns, which means burns affecting all layers of the skin or even deeper
tissues
ï‚· Burns that cause the skin to look leathery
ï‚· Burns that appear charred or have patches of black, brown or white
ï‚· Burns caused by chemicals or electricity
ï‚· Difficulty breathing or burns to the airway
FIRST AID
Take first aid initially and see the doctor in emergency department
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
ï‚· Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor of your house.
Keep hot liquids out of the reach of children and pets.
Never leave items cooking on the stove unattended.
