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A burn is not an uncommon injury in our households. Touching a hot surface, steaming iron or splashing from a hot liquid are everyday hazards in a kitchen and beyond.
It is a minor burn as long as the burn stays on the skin surface, covering an area smaller than a hand with mild pain, swelling and redness. This can be taken care of without much fuss.
First, remove the patient from the heat source and cool the affected area by immersing it in cool or tepid water.
Ice- or ice-cold water must not be used. Generally, keeping the burn under running tap water suffices.
According to Dr Nicole P. Bernal, a burn specialist at UCI Regional Burn Center., US, this should continue for 5 to 10 minutes. But sometimes, this can be extended to 20 minutes.
If a chemical causes the burn, it should be thoroughly splashed with plenty of water. For a facial burn, a cool, wet cloth must be applied for the pain to subside. If it is inside the mouth, as happens with hot drinks or food, a piece of ice can be kept inside the mouth for a few minutes.
The burn area may swell quickly. So, any tight clothing or jewellery around or near the burn must be removed immediately. If a piece of cloth is attached to the burn, leave it as is. Then wash it with mild soap to keep it sterile, and gently wrap a bandage around it. The bandage must not be too tight to close circulation.
A properly wrapped bandage helps keep the area clean, alleviates pain, and protects it from external irritants.
Check the bandage, change it after two days, and continue the same every 2-3 days. Antibiotic ointments are not advisable for minor burns. But petroleum jelly can be applied.
Blisters are common following burns. Many people have a habit of popping them, which is not recommended.
Blisters are beneficial as they protect from infection. They will heal by themselves. However, if a blister is popped, the area should be gently cleaned with water. If there are signs of infection, an antibiotic ointment might be required.
All burns are painful, some more, some less. Simple, over-the-counter pain relievers, which do not need a prescription, are often enough for minor burns. Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can be particularly useful in this respect.
A first-degree burn generally heals gradually with home remedies. Doctor consultation may not be required. But there are circumstances when even a minor burn necessitates seeking prompt medical help.
This is especially true if the burn is on a sensitive part of the body, e.g. genitals, face or eyes. Also, for infants, kids and elderly people, any burn should be treated with a physician’s help.
In case the patient has diabetes, his/her doctor should be contacted for support. Electrical burns and burns caused by chemicals or lightning all need expert care. Last but not least, immediate medical attention must be sought if the burn area is big, e.g., more than the size of a hand.