BURNS

What Causes Burns?

The most common causes of burns are:

hot liquids

open flames

too much sun

chemicals like lye, strong detergents, or acids

What is the Home Treatment for Burns?

From hot liquids, open flames, or too much sun:

The most important thing is to put cold water or cold compresses on the burn immediately and for the next 20-30 minutes. Start this before calling the doctor.
Do not pop the blisters or remove pieces of skin or clothing.
Though many sunburns are painful, you probably will not need to see the doctor. If there are large blisters or any blisters on a young child or elderly person, call your doctor. A cool bath or shower, or using a fan may be soothing. Creams and lotions from the drugstore are soothing but may irritate the skin if used regularly.
Aspirin or Tylenol®should help relieve the pain of minor burns or sunburns. (Do not give aspirin to babies, children, or teenagers unless recommended by your doctor.)
Keep the burned area clean.
Keep the burned area elevated, if possible.

From Chemicals:

Chemicals will burn until they are washed off.
- Immediately rinse the skin with large amounts of water from the shower or hose.
- Remove any clothing in contact with the chemicals.
- Call the doctor as soon as possible.
If you get harsh substances or cleaning solutions in your eyes:

Immediately flush the eye with water for 10 to 15 minutes.
Do not rub the eye as this can cause serious damage.
Call the doctor as soon as possible.

When Should a Burned Person Be Treated By A Doctor?

A very deep severe burn (one that looks white or charred) should be treated by a doctor immediately. Cover the burn with a clean soft cloth (sheet or pillowcase - not fluffy cotton). Keep the burned area elevated. Do not put any ointments, butter, oil, creams, or grease on the burn. Take the person to the emergency room immediately.

Call you doctor for any of the following:

chemical burns or eye burns.
burns on the face that blister.
any burn that blisters in an area larger than the palm of the hand.
any burn on a child less than two years old including sunburns that blister.
increased pain, swelling, or redness, or developing a fever, or if you think the area is infected.
if poorly healed five to six days after burn.

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