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Basic Description

A first-degree burn is the most minor type of burn. It only affects the outer layer of skin-the burn is at the surface only. First-degree burns can be caused by the sun (sunburns), chemicals, or heated objects or fluids.

With a second-degree burn, the top layer of skin has been burned through and the second layer of skin has also been burned (though not burned through). Second-degree burns also can be caused by the sun (sunburns), fire, chemicals, or heated objects or fluids.

A third-degree burn is an extremely severe burn that damages the top and bottom layers of skin and the underlying layers of fat, nerves, muscles, and even bones. The area will be charred black or white and will be dry and Powdery. Third-degree burns are usually caused by fire, though they can also be caused by chemicals or electrical wires.

Signs and Symptoms

First-Degree

Pink or red areas that mayor may not be accompanied by swelling and blisters

Tenderness or pain at the site

Second-Degree

Mottled, intensely red areas

Blistering at the site, sometimes accompanied by oozing fluid

Intense pain

Swelling

Third-Degree

Charred black and/or white areas

Visible bone, fat, nerves and/or muscles

Victim may be in shock or unconscious

First and second-degree burns often accompany third-degree burns

Severe pain, or if the nerves have been burned, lack of feeling

Conventional Medical Treatment

Unless the first-degree burn is accompanied by more serious burns, or covers large areas of the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks, or major joint, you can treat it at home. If the second-degree burn is limited to an area 3 inches in diameter or smaller, it can also be treated at home. If the skin is unbroken, run cool water over the area or soak it in a cool bath. Either way, keep the area submerged for 2 to 4 minutes. Then cover the burn with a sterile bandage or clean cloth. Minor burns usually heal without further attention. If an infection sets in, see your physician.

If the second-degree burn is larger than 3 inches in diameter, or has occurred on the feet, face, groin, buttocks, hands, or major joint, immediately go to your physician or hospital emergency room.

If any part of the body contains third-degree burns, immediately call an ambulance. If you are a bystander, check to see if the burn victim is breathing. If not, perform cardiopulumonary resuscitation (CPR). (If you are not trained in CPR, find someone who is.) If the person is breathing, cover the burned areas with a cool, moist, sterile bandage or a clean sheet (make sure it is a flatweave sheet rather than a fuzzy one). Do not apply any oils, ointments, or lotions, and do not move the victim.

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