Burns and scalds

 

Overview

 

Burns and scalds are injuries to the skin normally caused by heat. A burn is caused by dry heat (eg. iron or fire), while a scald is caused by something wet (eg. hot water or steam). Both can be treated the same way.

 

Symptoms

Burns can be very painful and can cause

 

• Red or peeling skin
• Blisters
• Swelling
• White or charred skin

 

There are different degrees of burns, from first-degree (least serious) to third-degree (most serious). Sunburn can also be a first-degree burn. Most first-degree burns can be treated at home, however, it is important to treat burns properly.

 

Treatment

 

To treat a burn, follow the first aid advice below:

• Immediately get the person away from the heat source
• Remove any clothing or jewellery near the burnt area. If clothing is stuck to the wound, cut around it, but do not remove any stuck fabric forcefully.
• Cool the burn with cool running water for at least 10 minutes or until the pain subsides. Do not use ice, iced water, butter or other greasy substances.
• After cooling the burn, cover the area with a sterile gauze bandage or cling wrap. Do not touch the burn or burst any blisters.
• Use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat any pain.
• Raise the affected area if possible, this helps to reduce swelling.
• Once the burn heals, protect the area from the sun by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing or applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. This will help to minimise scarring.

 

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If your first-degree burn covers a large area, or if the victim is an infant or elderly person, or if you think your burn is more severe, seek medical help immediately.

 

You should go to a hospital A&E department for :

• All chemicals and electrical burns
• Large (i.e. bigger than your hand) or deep burns
• Burns causing white, leathery or charred skin
• Burns in the mouth, throat, eyes, ears or genital area

 

Preventing Burns and Scalds

• Keeping your child out of the kitchen whenever possible
• Keeping matches, lighters, and lit candles out of young children’s sight and reach
• Keeping hot drinks well away from young children
• Testing the temperature of bath water using your elbow before putting your baby / toddler in the bath
• Put your iron, straighteners or curling tongs out of reach while they cool down

 

References

 

https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/treat-minor-burns

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/prevention/

https://www.singhealth.com.sg/rhs/get-well/gpfirst/mild-burns-and-scalds