Burns - Types and Treatments

Burns are usually classified into three levels or intensities such as –

• First Degree
  First-degree burns are minor and cause minimum skin damage. They affect the top layer of the skin and heal in a week or two. In most instances, minor burns don’t cause scars. There may be discolouring, which will fade in a couple of months. Light swelling, inflammation, tolerable pain, and dry peeling skin during the healing period are some signs of first-degree burns. If the burns cover a larger surface area, it is recommended to see a doctor. Topical applications will be prescribed to accelerate healing and prevent infection. 
• Second Degree
  Second-degree burns are serious as they cause more damage and affect the dermis (inner layers) of the skin. These cause blistering and turn the skin red, sore, and painful. The blisters will be filled with water-like liquid and should not be popped open. Second-degree burns are delicate and have to be treated to prevent infections and excessive pain. They also take more time to heal (three to five weeks), depending on the extent of the area affected. While these burns may not cause scarring, they cause uneven pigmentation, which will eventually fade. Consult a doctor to treat second-degree burns. 
• Third Degree
  Third-degree burns are major and highly severe. They penetrate deep and damage the tissues, muscles, and nerves in the affected area. There won’t be any pain or sensation in the area since the nerves will also be destroyed, and the brain won’t get signals. Third-degree burns take months to heal and leave deep scars. The skin looks wrinkled, waxy, charred, and has a leathery texture. Since the hair follicles will also be damaged, the scars will not have hair strands. These burns cannot be treated at home and need immediate medical attention. 
• Complications of Burns
  A person of any age, gender, race, etc., can end up with burns. Accidents or deliberate attempts lead to burns and damaged skin tissues. While first-degree burns don’t cause complications (unless you are careless), second and third-degree burns can result in the following complications.

• Infections 
• Blood loss 
• Sepsis (tetanus) 
• Hypothermia (low body temperature) 
• Hypovolemia (lower blood volume)
• Shock
• Dehydration
• Arrhythmia (disturbance in heart rhythm)
• Edema (swelling in tissues)
• Pneumonia 
• Organ failure 
• Disfigurement

The sooner you provide medical attention to the patient, the lesser the risk of complications. Doctors treat the physical wounds while also minimizing the emotional impact. However, it may take a while for the patients to feel ‘normal’.