Burns Information and Prevention

Feb 19
17:16

2008

Juliet Cohen

Juliet Cohen

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Third-degree (full thickness) burns extend into deeper tissues. They cause white or blackened, charred skin that may be numb.

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Burn may be an injury caused by heat,Burns Information and Prevention Articles cold, electricity, chemicals, friction or radiation (e.g. a sunburn). Scalds from hot liquids and steam, building fires and flammable liquids and gases are the most common causes of burns. There are three levels of burns first-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin. They cause pain, redness, and swelling. second-degree (partial thickness) burns affect both the outer and underlying layer of skin. They cause pain, redness, swelling, and blistering.

They also can lead to infections because they damage your skin's protective barrier. Burns to your airways can be caused by inhaling smoke, steam, superheated air, or toxic fumes, often in a poorly ventilated space. More than 2 million people in the United States require treatment for burns each year, and between 3,000 and 4,000 die of severe burns. Burns in children are sometimes traced to parental abuse. The first step in managing a person with a burn is to stop the burning process. With dry powder burns, the powder should be brushed off first. Cold water should never be applied to any person with extensive burns.

Antibiotic creams can prevent or treat infections. Take an over-the-counter pain relieve include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). Never give aspirin to children or teenagers. A proper diet that includes adequate amounts of calories, protein, and nutrients is important for healing. If the burned area is small, flush for another 10 to 20 minutes, apply a sterile gauze pad or bandage. Don't use fireworks or sparklers. Avoid using tablecloths or large placemats. A small child can pull on them and overturn a hot drink or plate of food. Keep hot drinks and foods out of reach of children.

Burns Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. A proper diet also recommeded this cases.

2. Local anesthetic is usually sufficient in managing pain.

3. Choose sleepwear that's labeled flame retardant.

4. Always test bath water with your elbow before putting your child in it.

5. Lidocaine can be administered to the spot of injury and will generally negate most pain.

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