Types of Burn and First Aid for Burn  

Burns are classified into three different categories depending on the degree of the burn and the damage caused.

What are first-degree burns?

They are small burns in the outer layer of the skin which cause redness in the skin, swelling and pain and no blisters. Minor burns usually heal with further treatment.

How to treat first-degree burns?   

• Move patient from the dangerous heat source.
• Take off any burnt clothing. 
• Run cool water over burnt area until pain subsides. Avoid using ice on the burned area.
• Gently dry. 
• Use sterile gauze bandage to cover burns. Make sure it is loose to protect the blistered skin and keep air off the wound to reduce pain.
• If necessary, take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers. 
• If infection develops such as increased pain, redness, fever, swelling or oozing go to the doctor immediately.
• To avoid pigmentation changes in the skin avoid tanning if the burns are less than a year. 

What are second-degree burns?

They are burns to the first and second layer of the skin. Symptoms of these burns include: severe pain, swelling, redness and blisters. Scars might also develop. It is usually treated as a minor burn unless it is no longer than 7.5 centimeters. If the burned area is larger or over a major joint it is treated as a major burn, seek medical attention immediately. Hospitalization is essential either way.

What are third-degree burns?

They are burns to all three skin layers (fat, muscle, bones) causing permanent tissue damage. The burned area may be charred black or appear dry and white. There are no noted blisters, however, swelling and scars usually occure. Most of the serious burns are painless due to destroyed nerves. 

How to treat third-degree burns?

• Move the person away from the heat source and carefully put out any flames on their body.
• Call for emergency medical assistance (dial 997). 
• Don't remove burnt clothing.
• Don't submerge large severe burns in cold water.
• If there is no breathing or other sign of circulation, begin CPR.
• Elevate the burned body part or parts. Rise above heart level, when possible.
• Cover the burned area with a cool, moist, sterile bandage, a clean, moist cloth or moist towels.

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