Some of the most painful household accident are skin burns more or less serious. It is important to know what should you do and, especially, what NOT to do to do in such cases. Burns can be caused by objects or hot liquids, steam, fire, sunlight, radiation, electricity and chemicals.

How to recognize the types of burns?

Depending on the severity, burns may have 3 degrees:

1. First degree burns: are limited to the superficial layer of skin (epidermis) and red lesions tha are painful, slightly swollen and the skin may peel after 1-2 days.
2. Second degree burns are deeper, and affects the second layer of skin (dermis), are very painful, the skin is very red, and swelling can be significant.
3. Third degree burns affect all the skin, which becomes of dark appearance, there is little or no pain because the nerves are destroyed.

A first degree burn can be treated easily at home. 2nd degree burns, requiring medical visit if is a diameter greater than 5 cm, located on the face, hands, feet, genitals or joints. A third degree burn requires emergency medical care.

How to treat a minor burn ?

1. Affected area will be held under cold tap water for 10-15 minutes. If it is not available, the area will be covered with a cold wet compresses. Cold water to relieve pain, will feel the heat removed and prevent burn extension. Do not apply ice directly on the wound! This can cause frostbite and burning may worsen.
2. Do not apply butter or oil in the wound! They will retain all the heat inside the tissue, thereby increasing the possibility of extending the burn and the development of an infection.
3. After cooling the affected region can apply a soothing lotion that will prevent dry skin.
4. The next step is to cover the area with a sterile bandage. It should not be very tight to avoid pressure on the wound.
5. In case of occurrence of blisters, don’t touch them! They will heal spontaneously.

How to treat a major burn?

1. Medical advice is required!
2. The wound will be covered with a sterile compress or a clean sheet. Do not use towels, they tend to stick injuries.
3. Don’t apply ointments and don’t touch the blisters!

Superficial burns should be given special attention: increased pain, redness, swelling of the area or the appearance of pus. If experiencing any of these signs requires immediate visit to the doctor.