Burns and Scalds
Synopsis
Burns and scalds refer to injuries to the skin and underlying tissues caused by heat, including dry heat (fire, hot surfaces) or moist heat (steam, hot liquids). Burns are categorized by severity based on depth and extent of tissue damage:
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First-degree burns: Affect the outer layer of skin (epidermis), causing redness and mild pain (e.g., sunburn).
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Second-degree burns: Affect the epidermis and dermis, leading to redness, blistering, and more intense pain.
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Third-degree burns: Extend into deeper tissues, causing white or charred skin and potential nerve damage.
Scalds, a type of burn caused by moist heat, often affect children or older adults and usually involve hot liquids or steam. Immediate treatment focuses on cooling the burn, preventing infection, and promoting healing. Severe burns require medical intervention to prevent complications like shock, infection, or scarring.
Types:
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Thermal burns: From fire, hot surfaces, or steam.
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Scalds: From hot liquids or steam exposure.
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Electrical burns: From electric currents.
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Chemical burns: From corrosive substances.
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Radiation burns: From sun exposure or radiation therapy.
Common Causes (Risk Factors):
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Contact with hot objects: Stoves, irons, tools.
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Hot liquids or steam exposure: Cooking accidents, bathing in too-hot water.
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Open flames: House fires, grills, campfires.
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Electrical accidents: Wires, outlets.
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Sun exposure: Leading to sunburn.
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Chemical exposure: Cleaning agents, industrial chemicals.
More Severe Causes (Complications):
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Infection: Open skin increases risk, especially in second- or third-degree burns.
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Scarring: From deep or improperly treated burns.
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Fluid loss and shock: In severe burns, the body loses fluids rapidly.
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Restricted mobility: From burns over joints leading to contractures.
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Hypothermia or hyperthermia: Disruption of body temperature regulation.
When to See a Doctor or Specialist (Burn Specialist, Dermatologist):
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Burns larger than 3 inches, or located on the face, hands, feet, groin, or joints.
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Second- or third-degree burns.
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Signs of infection: Pus, increased redness, swelling, or fever.
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Electrical or chemical burns.
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Difficulty breathing after inhalation injury (smoke, steam).
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Uncontrolled pain or slow-healing burns.
Natural Remedies
Cool Water Rinse (Immediate First Aid): Reduces heat, pain, and limits tissue damage. Run under cool (not cold) water for 10–20 minutes.
Aloe Vera Gel: Soothes burned skin, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing. Apply pure gel directly to the burn.
Honey: Natural antimicrobial and wound healer, reduces infection risk and supports tissue repair. Apply a thin layer to minor burns.
Lavender Essential Oil (Diluted): Promotes skin healing and reduces pain. Mix with a carrier oil before applying.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA, EPA): Reduce inflammation and support tissue regeneration. Include fish oil supplements.
Curcumin (Turmeric): Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, supports healing and reduces oxidative stress. Take internally for systemic support.
Zinc: Essential for wound healing and skin regeneration. Supplement if deficient.
Vitamin C: Supports collagen synthesis and tissue repair. Supplement regularly.
Epsom Salt Soaks (for minor burns on hands or feet): Soothes skin and reduces swelling. Soak for 15–20 minutes.
Keep the Area Moisturized (with natural ointments): Prevents dryness and cracking, supports healing. Use ointments with aloe, honey, or natural oils.
Ingredients
These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.
lavender oil (MERGED)
omega-3 fatty acids
vitamin C
zinc
selenium
aloe vera
alpha lipoic acid
curcumin
magnesium