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FIRST DEGREE BURNS
Burns can be caused by heat and fire, radiation, sunlight, electricity or chemicals. There are three types of burns, each increasing in severity.
First-degree burns are red and painful. They swell a little. They turn white when you press on the skin. The skin over the burn may peel off after one or two days.
To treat first-degree burns, soak the burn in cool water. Apply a skin care product like aloe vera cream or an antibiotic ointment to the burned area. To protect the burned area, put a dry gauze bandage over the burn. An over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen can be administered to relieve the pain.
SECOND DEGREE BURNS
Second-degree burns have blisters and are painful. The skin is very red or splotchy, and it may swell a lot.
To treat a second-degree burns, soak the burn in cool water for 15 minutes. Apply an antibiotic cream. Cover the burn with a dry nonstick dressing held in place with gauze or tape. The victim should check with the doctor's office to make sure he or she is up-to-date on tetanus shots. The dressing should be changed every day. If there are signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling or pus, see a doctor right away. To prevent infection, avoid breaking any blisters that form.
THIRD DEGREE BURNS
Third-degree burns cause damage to all layers of the skin. The burned skin looks white or charred. These burns may cause little or no pain because the nerves in the skin are damaged.
A third-degree burn is extremely serious. Take the victim to the hospital right away. Don't take off any clothing that is stuck to the burn. Don't soak the burn in water or apply any ointment. Cover the burn with a sterile bandage or clean cloth until medical assistance is available.
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