How to Get Rid of a Burn

Burns happen all the time, and they can be caused by things like heat, chemicals, electricity, or even radiation. Some burns are just a little annoying, while others can be really serious. It's important to know how to treat them properly to make sure they heal well. This article will tell you everything you need to know about burns, from first aid to when to see a doctor.

Understanding Burns

How bad is a burn?

Burns are different based on how deep they go into your skin.

1. First-degree burns are like a sunburn. They're red, painful, and might swell up.
2. Second-degree burns are more serious. They go deeper into your skin and can cause blisters. These burns can take a few weeks to heal, and they might leave scars.
3. Third-degree burns are the worst. They go through all layers of skin, and can even reach the fat, muscle, or bone underneath. These burns look white or charred, and they might not even hurt because the nerves are damaged. If you have a third-degree burn, go to the doctor right away!

First Aid for Burns

If someone gets burned, act fast to help them. Here's what to do:

1. Cool it down. Run cool water over the burn for 10-15 minutes. Don't use ice, because it can make the burn worse.
2. Get rid of jewelry or clothes. If something is stuck to the burn, don't try to pull it off. Let it cool down first. If the burn is big, take off any clothes around it to stop the heat from spreading.
3. Cover it up. Use a clean, non-stick bandage or dressing to keep the burn protected. Avoid using fluffy materials like cotton, because they can stick to the burn.
4. Lift it up. If you can, raise the burned area above the heart to help reduce swelling.
5. Don't put butter or ointment on it. These things trap heat and can increase the chance of infection. Stick with what you know until a doctor tells you otherwise.
6. Call the doctor! If the burn is bigger than 2 inches, or if it's a third-degree burn, go to the doctor immediately. You should also see a doctor if the burn is on the face, hands, feet, or genitals, or if it affects the eyes or breathing.

Taking Care of Minor Burns at Home

For minor burns, like first-degree burns, you can usually take care of them at home. Here are some things that can help:

1. Ease the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with pain and swelling.
2. Use antibiotic ointment. Put a thin layer of antibiotic ointment on the burn to help prevent infection. Make sure it doesn't have any added fragrances or dyes.
3. Moisturize it up. Once the burn is healed, use a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin soft and prevent dryness.
4. Keep it clean. Wash the burn gently with mild soap and water, pat it dry, and put on a fresh dressing.
5. Don't scratch or pick. Scratching or picking at the burn can make it worse and delay healing.

Preventing Burns

The best way to deal with burns is to avoid them in the first place. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Be careful around heat. Be mindful of hot stoves, ovens, fireplaces, and other things that get hot. Keep flammable things away from heat sources, and watch kids closely around them.
• Cook safely. Wear heat-resistant gloves when you're cooking, and turn pot handles inward so they don't get knocked over. Never leave food cooking unattended.
• Use electrical appliances safely. Follow the instructions for all appliances, and unplug them when you're not using them. Don't use cords that are frayed or damaged.
• Handle chemicals safely. Wear protective gear, like gloves and goggles, when you're working with chemicals. Store chemicals in their original containers, and keep them out of reach of children.
• Protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and wear protective clothing to avoid getting sunburned. Stay out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day.

When to See a Doctor

Some burns need extra care, and you should see a doctor if:

• The burn is bigger than 2 inches across.
• The burn is on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.
• The burn affects the eyes or breathing.
• The burn is deep and looks charred (third-degree burn).
• The burn makes you feel sick, with fever, chills, or lots of swelling.
• The burn looks infected, with pus, redness, or more pain.

Remember

Treating burns properly can help them heal faster and minimize scarring. By learning about the different types of burns, knowing what to do in a first aid situation, and preventing burns from happening in the first place, you can stay safe and healthy.