First Degree Burn Treatment

A burn can be defined as an injury to the body caused by heat, electricity, radiation, friction, light, chemicals or even extreme cold. Burns are classified into four groups as per the severity of the harm caused to the muscles, bones, blood vessels and dermal and epidermal tissues. Burns are also accompanied by pain caused by the injury to the nerves. As per the severity, burns are categorized as first, second, third and fourth degree burns. Apart from the physical symptoms, burns are often associated with mental shock and other emotional problems due to scars and deformity.

Classification of Burns

Burns are classified into four groups - first, second, third and fourth degree, according to the extent of damage. The treatment for burns is determined as per this classification. First degree burns are considered the least severe ones, which affects only the outer layer of the skin. These minor burns are characterized by redness and swelling of the affected portion, with or without pain. First degree burns are not considered serious, unless these burns involve a major part of the hands, feet, face, any of the major joints or buttocks.

If both the first and second layers of the skin get burned, then such an injury is termed as a second degree burn. These burns are characterized by severe pain and inflammation of the affected part. It may also involve superficial blistering of the skin, which is intensely reddened. A total destruction of the epidermis along with some damage to the subcutaneous tissues result in third degree burns with eschar (dry, black dead tissues). These burns lead to scarring and loss of hair and keratin. The most serious ones are categorized as fourth degree burns, and can damage muscles, tendons, ligament tissues and the entire hypodermis. In some cases, these burns can even be life-threatening.

Treatment for First Degree Burns

First degree burns, which are considered minor, do not develop blisters. The skin becomes reddened, moist and inflamed. These burns do not cause scarring and can be treated at home itself. However, if these burns cover a large area or if the burns are on the face, hands, feet, buttocks and genitals, you have to consult a doctor for proper treatment. This is applicable for those burns caused by an electrical source.

• In case of first degree burns, you have to remove any clothing or jewelry from that area and hold the affected area under cool, running water for at least 5 to 10 minutes or until the pain subsides. You can also immerse the affected part in cold water or use cold compresses, but never put ice or ice water directly on the burn. This cooling procedure helps reduce the inflammation caused by the burn.
• Now take a clean, dry and sterile gauze and cover the area loosely. Never use bandages with adhesives or cotton over the burns. It is not advisable to use butter, oil or any ointments, as it can negatively affect the healing process. However, you can use an antiseptic cleanser, while washing the area.
• You can also use over-the-counter pain relievers, which are beneficial in reducing the pain as well as the inflammation. Children below the age of eighteen should not take aspirin.
• In case of burns caused by chemicals, uses lots of water to wash the area, in order to ensure complete removal of the chemical. It will be better if you consult a doctor in this regard, even if the burns are minor. But you must take note of the name of the chemical.

Normally, first degree burns do not require any further skin burn treatment and the above said first aid for burns is sufficient. These burns can heal naturally, but you have to check for any symptoms of infection, like swelling, oozing, pain, redness and fever. In the case of such symptoms, you must seek medical attention. Otherwise these burns heal and the burned skin peels off with a change in the skin color of the affected area. The change of color may last for at least one year. In short, first degree burns are only minor burns and timely action can save you from possible further complications.