Scalding

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Scalding is a type of burn injury caused by hot liquids or steam. It is a common household injury, particularly among children and the elderly. Scalds can vary in severity from minor to life-threatening and are classified based on the depth and extent of the burn.

Causes

Scalding occurs when the skin comes into contact with hot liquids or steam. Common sources of scalds include:

• Boiling water
• Hot beverages such as coffee or tea
• Cooking liquids like soup or oil
• Steam from cooking appliances or industrial equipment

Classification

Scalds are classified similarly to other burns, based on the depth of the injury:

• First-degree burns: Affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), causing redness and pain.
• Second-degree burns: Extend into the second layer of skin (dermis), causing blisters, swelling, and severe pain.
• Third-degree burns: Penetrate the full thickness of the skin, potentially affecting underlying tissues. These burns may appear white, charred, or leathery and can be painless due to nerve damage.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a scald depend on the severity of the burn:

• Redness and pain (first-degree)
• Blisters and swelling (second-degree)
• White or charred skin, numbness (third-degree)

Treatment

Immediate treatment for scalds includes:

• Removing the source of heat
• Cooling the burn with cool water (not ice) for at least 10-20 minutes
• Covering the burn with a clean, non-stick bandage
• Seeking medical attention for severe burns

Prevention

Preventing scalds involves:

• Keeping hot liquids out of reach of children
• Using stove guards and pot handles turned inward
• Testing bath water temperature before use
• Educating about the dangers of hot liquids and steam

Complications

Severe scalds can lead to complications such as:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Contractures (tightening of the skin)
• Shock in extreme cases

See also

• Burn
• First aid
• Thermal injury
• Skin grafting