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Basic Description
A first-degree burn is the most minor type of burn. It only affects the
outer layer of skin-the burn is at the surface only. First-degree burns can
be caused by the sun (sunburns), chemicals, or heated objects or fluids.
With a second-degree burn, the top layer of skin has been burned through and
the second layer of skin has also been burned (though not burned through).
Second-degree burns also can be caused by the sun (sunburns), fire,
chemicals, or heated objects or fluids.
A third-degree burn is an extremely severe burn that damages the top and
bottom layers of skin and the underlying layers of fat, nerves, muscles, and
even bones. The area will be charred black or white and will be dry and
Powdery. Third-degree burns are usually caused by fire, though they can also
be caused by chemicals or electrical wires.
Signs and Symptoms
First-Degree
Pink or red areas that mayor may not be accompanied by swelling and blisters
Tenderness or pain at the site
Second-Degree
Mottled, intensely red areas
Blistering at the site, sometimes accompanied by oozing fluid
Intense pain
Swelling
Third-Degree
Charred black and/or white areas
Visible bone, fat, nerves and/or muscles
Victim may be in shock or unconscious
First and second-degree burns often accompany third-degree burns
Severe pain, or if the nerves have been burned, lack of feeling
Conventional Medical Treatment
Unless the first-degree burn is accompanied by more serious burns, or covers
large areas of the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks, or major joint, you
can treat it at home. If the second-degree burn is limited to an area 3
inches in diameter or smaller, it can also be treated at home. If the skin
is unbroken, run cool water over the area or soak it in a cool bath. Either
way, keep the area submerged for 2 to 4 minutes. Then cover the burn with a
sterile bandage or clean cloth. Minor burns usually heal without further
attention. If an infection sets in, see your physician.
If the second-degree burn is larger than 3 inches in diameter, or has
occurred on the feet, face, groin, buttocks, hands, or major joint,
immediately go to your physician or hospital emergency room.
If any part of the body contains third-degree burns, immediately call an
ambulance. If you are a bystander, check to see if the burn victim is
breathing. If not, perform cardiopulumonary resuscitation (CPR). (If you are
not trained in CPR, find someone who is.) If the person is breathing, cover
the burned areas with a cool, moist, sterile bandage or a clean sheet (make
sure it is a flatweave sheet rather than a fuzzy one). Do not apply any
oils, ointments, or lotions, and do not move the victim. |
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