First Aid: Minor Burns

Minor Burns

Overview and Facts about Minor Burns

Burns are one of the leading causes of childhood injury. Approximately 4000 people die each year in the United States from fire and burn injuries. Of the 3 degrees of burns, first degree burns are the least severe. First degree burns, which occur when only the outer layer of skin is burned, are considered minor unless they involve a large surface area or are located in an area such as the groin, buttocks, or over a major joint. Second degree burns, which penetrate the first and second layers of the skin, can be treated as minor burns as long as they do not exceed 3 inches in diameter.

Signs and Symptoms of Minor Burns

A patient who has experienced a first degree burn will exhibit the following signs:
Redness
Swelling
Pain

Causes/Common Triggers

A number of circumstances can cause a minor burn, including:
Scalding from hot liquids
Skin contact with hot objects of flames
Exposure to chemicals
Electrical injuries
Excessive sun exposure

Tests and Diagnosis

The severity of a burn is determined by its depth. A first degree burn occurs when only the top layer of skin is burned. If it is difficult to determine how severe a burn is, the patient should consult with a physician or seek treatment at the emergency room, as severe burns cannot be treated at home.

Prevention

Several precautionary steps can be taken to prevent minor burns including:
Using oven mitts or gloves when handling hot objects in the kitchen
Wearing protective clothing/gloves when dealing with chemicals
Always applying sunscreen when exposed to the sun
Avoiding taking showers or baths with extremely hot water
Taking extra precautions when dealing with flames
Keeping hot objects/substances away from young children

Management

If an individual is handling substances that may cause a burn, it is important to always take preventive measures and to be particularly mindful of younger children. After a burn has healed, it is important to avoid reinjuring the area, as this may cause the skin to become more pigmented, leading to more scarring. Patients can take OTC pain relievers as needed, and avoid applying butter or ointments to the area.

Treatment and Care

Patients who suffer a second degree burn that is larger than 3 inches wide or a third degree burn should go to an emergency room immediately. In the event of a first degree burn or a second degree burn that is less than 3 inches wide, patients should run cool water over the area for at least 5 minutes. Ice should not be used on the burn. Patients can also apply aloe vera or an antibiotic ointment, and then wrap the area loosely with a dry bandage.

Homeopathic and Alternative Remedies

There are several home remedies that can be used to treat minor burns, including honey, toothpaste, and vitamin E, but it is important to consults a physician before trying them. Applying any substances to the area may increase the chances of an infection, especially if the skin is broken.

Self-Care

A number of OTC products can be used to treat burns, including aloe vera cream and antibiotic ointments, and pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Pharmacists can help recommend products to relieve symptoms.