If you were burned by flame, move away from the source of the flame and practice the stop, drop, and roll method to put the fire out. [3] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source This method requires laying on the ground, folding your arms to your chest in an ‘X’ and rolling rapidly from side to side. Wrapping yourself in a thick coat or blanket will also help you extinguish the flames. You could also pour a large bucket of water over yourself to put out the fire. If you were burned by contact with hot metal, plastic, or coal, remove the heated object as soon as possible without touching it.
Be gentle when removing jewelry and clothes. Do not remove burned clothing if it is stuck to the skin. [5] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Depending on the burn, it might take as long as 15 to 20 minutes for the pain to subside. [6] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source [7] X Research source Do not use ice on a burn. Do not immerse large, major burns in cold water. This could cause hypothermia or shock.
Before cleaning your burn, wash your hands with soap and water. Do not pop or scrape away blisters.
Change your dressings once every 48 hours. If the site of the burn weeps some fluid, don’t worry. This is normal; however, if your burn exudes green, white, or yellowish liquid, or becomes increasingly swollen or red, it has become infected and you should consult a doctor. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
First-degree burns cause redness, pain, and swelling. Second-degree burns extend more deeply into the skin than first-degree burns. They result in blisters that reveal pink, moist, and painful flesh when removed. If your second-degree burn is deep, it will probably be dry, not moist, and not terribly painful. If it is deep and dry, you might not be able to determine whether it’s a third-degree or second-degree burn. Third-degree burns will often cause no pain at all the nerves have been damaged. They involve all layers of the skin, including body fat. The burned skin might appear black or white, and will be dry, possibly with a leathery appearance. Bone and muscle might be burned as well. Victims of third-degree burns might have difficulty breathing or go into shock.
If you have burns on your face, feet, genitals, or hands, consult a medical professional immediately. If you’re unsure of the severity of your burn, err on the side of caution and treat it as a major burn.
If you have any doubts about the extent and severity of your burn, consult your doctor for advice and treatment.
Do not give aspirin to children younger than 12 years old. Apply lotion to the burn. Aloe vera lotion or gel can provide pain relief and reduce swelling. [17] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
