Burning

Burning

Burning refers to the sensation or actual damage caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, sunlight, or radiation. It is a common medical condition that can vary in severity from minor discomfort to life-threatening injuries. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of burns is crucial for medical professionals.

Classification of Burns

Burns are classified based on their depth and the extent of the body surface area affected. The primary classifications are:

First-Degree Burns

First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. They are characterized by redness, pain, and minor swelling. An example is a mild sunburn.

Second-Degree Burns

Second-degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis, the second layer of skin. These burns cause redness, swelling, and blistering. They are more painful and may require medical attention.

Third-Degree Burns

Third-degree burns extend through the dermis and affect deeper tissues. The skin may appear white, charred, or leathery. These burns can destroy nerves, leading to numbness, and often require surgical intervention such as skin grafting.

Fourth-Degree Burns

Fourth-degree burns go through both layers of the skin and underlying tissue, potentially affecting muscle and bone. These are the most severe and life-threatening burns.

Causes of Burns

Burns can be caused by various factors, including:

• Thermal Burns: Result from contact with hot objects, liquids, steam, or flames.
• Chemical Burns: Caused by exposure to acids, alkalis, or other corrosive substances.
• Electrical Burns: Occur when an electrical current passes through the body.
• Radiation Burns: Result from exposure to radiation, such as sunburn from ultraviolet rays or burns from radiation therapy.

Symptoms of Burns

The symptoms of burns depend on the severity and type of burn. Common symptoms include:

• Redness and swelling
• Pain and tenderness
• Blisters (in second-degree burns)
• Peeling skin
• White or charred skin (in third-degree burns)

Treatment of Burns

The treatment of burns varies based on the severity:

First-Degree Burns

• Cool the burn with running water.
• Apply aloe vera or a moisturizing lotion.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers.

Second-Degree Burns

• Cool the burn and cover it with a sterile, non-stick bandage.
• Do not pop blisters.
• Seek medical attention if the burn is large or on the face, hands, or genitals.

Third-Degree Burns

• Call emergency services immediately.
• Do not remove burned clothing.
• Cover the burn with a clean cloth or bandage.
• Administer fluids and oxygen if necessary.

Prevention of Burns

Preventive measures include:

• Installing smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
• Keeping hot liquids and chemicals out of reach of children.
• Using sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
• Following safety protocols when handling electrical equipment.

See Also

• Skin grafting
• Sunburn
• First aid

References

• American Burn Association. "Burn Incidence and Treatment in the United States: 2016 Fact Sheet."
• National Institute of General Medical Sciences. "Burns."