Burns: Types, Symptoms, First Aid, and Treatment

What Are Burns and What Causes Them?

Burn is a form of tissue or skin injury that usually occurs due to exposure to heat. They may also result from exposure to electricity, chemicals, or radiation. In certain situations, even severe cold or friction can cause a burn-type injury.

The skin consists of multiple layers, and based on the depth of the injury, the impact can range from minor redness to extensive damage to the tissues.

Some typical causes of burns are:

• Hot liquids or steam

• Open flames or hot surfaces

• Chemical splashing or spills

• Electrical sources

• Sun exposure over a period of time

Classification and Symptoms

Burns occur at various levels, depending on the depth of the injury. The levels can help you determine the severity of the burn and the type of treatment it requires. Regardless of the severity of burn or any other injury, ensure that you have health insurance that can cover you against burns and other types of injuries.

Some of the types of burns are:

Superficial burns (first-degree):

These types of burns only affect the outer layer of the skin. The skin may appear red, feel dry and painful, and have little or no blistering.

Partial-thickness burns (second-degree):

These burns penetrate deeper into the skin. The area will swell, turn red or white, and blister. Pain could be more intense than with an epidermal burn.

Full-thickness burns (third-degree):

These extend to deep layers of skin and can involve nerves, muscles, or even bones. The skin could appear white, brown, or charred. Because nerve endings could have been damaged, the individual may not feel much pain.

Deep burns (fourth-degree and beyond):

These burns extend through all layers of the skin and may also involve the muscles and bones. The skin might appear blackened, and the area may be numb due to nerve destruction.

First Aid for Burns

Quick burn treatment may help prevent the burn from worsening. Here are some basic care tips:

1. Cool the burn:

Submerge the burned area in cool (not cold) running water for several minutes. This could decrease heat and calm the skin.

2. Take off tight objects:

Carefully remove watches, rings, or tight clothing from around the burn area before it begins to swell. Do not pull something that is sticking to the skin.

3. Cover the burn:

Use a clean, non-stick cloth or bandage to cover the area. This might reduce the chance of infection.

4. Avoid home remedies:

Do not apply ice, toothpaste, butter, or powder. These might cause more harm or delay healing.

5. Don’t pop blisters:

If blisters form, leave them alone. They act as a natural cover and might help prevent infection.

Burn Treatment by Severity

Burns require various kinds of treatment based on their severity:

Mild burns:

These may be treated at home. The burn should be cleaned, dried, and lightly covered. Moisturising creams or calming gels could assist in healing and soothing.

Moderate burns:

Such burns may require specialised dressings and frequent medical visits. The skin heals slowly, and there's an increased risk of infection or scarring.

Severe burns:

For deeper skin layers or extensive areas of the body, treatment could involve hospitalisation. The individual may require fluid therapy, wound care, and possibly surgery in case of extensive damage. Ensure that you have coverage against personal accident insurance to prepare against such scenarios and others.

Special cases:

Facial, hand, foot, groin, or joint burns might require additional care despite the burns appearing minor, since they could impair movement or leave permanent marks.

Management and Blister Care

Burn pain can be different. Some cause an immediate, stinging pain, while others may feel numb. Pain management is essential to heal and rest.

For more severe painful burns, a physician's advice may be necessary. Experts may recommend various choices depending on the response to the skin burn treatment and the level of pain.

Blisters often form to protect the damaged skin beneath. If left undisturbed, they may support faster healing. However, if a blister bursts on its own, the area should be gently cleaned and covered with a clean, non-stick dressing.

Tightness and itching can also follow as the skin starts to heal. Applying a suitable ointment and avoiding scratching can reduce discomfort and support more uniform healing.

Conclusion

Burns can result in discomfort, scarring, skin damage, and occasionally chronic medical conditions. Even small burns can be painful and disrupt daily life, whereas serious burns could need prolonged treatment, frequent follow-up sessions, or even surgery. Healing may involve a period of time, and the expense of treatment could increase rapidly, particularly if hospitalisation or specialist care is necessary.

This is where health insurance comes into play. It may relieve the financial stress, provide access to prompt care, and enable recovery without extra stress.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.

Sources: clevelandclinic.org, healthline.com, redcross.org

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on July 23, 2025