Burns

Burns: causes, symptoms and treatments

Burns are damage to the skin and tissue caused by exposure to high temperatures, chemicals, radiation or electricity. Burns can vary in severity and require appropriate treatment.

Degrees of burns

Burns are divided into three degrees:

Grade I: A superficial burn in which the skin becomes red and stings. It usually does not cause serious damage and goes away on its own within a few days.

Grade II: A moderate burn in which the skin becomes red and swollen and blisters of fluid appear on the surface. This degree of burn can cause severe pain and requires medical attention.

Grade III: A severe burn that destroys the skin and underlying tissue, creating deep ulcers and open wounds. This degree of burn can be fatal, especially if more than one-third of the body is damaged.

Treatment methods

The extent of the burn determines the need for medical attention and treatment options. For minor first-degree burns, you can use simple home care methods:

1. Lubricate the burned areas with vegetable oil, such as Provençal, bean, nut or fish oil.

2. Apply the whole egg (white and yolk) to the burned areas, repeating the application more often.

3. Tie grated raw potatoes, carrots or beets to the burned areas.

4. Sprinkle the burned areas with baking soda, moistening the area with a little water.

5. Lubricate the burned areas with glycerin, which greatly soothes the pain.

6. Apply sauerkraut, changing it often.

7. Apply a rag soaked in vinegar.

8. Lubricate with real bee honey (not sugar).

9. Tie a thin plastic of plain gray soap.

For second and third degree burns, when blisters appear and the skin falls off, medical attention is needed. In such cases, the blisters need to be pierced with a clean needle, the liquid released from them, and then the wound should be treated with an antiseptic. For third degree burns, professional medical attention is required and the patient should be taken to the hospital.

It is important to remember that you should not use oil-based ointments or creams for burns, as this can lead to infection of the wounds and slow down the healing process.

Burns are serious damage to skin and tissue, so precautions must be taken to prevent them. Some tips for preventing burns:

1. Avoid direct skin exposure to sunlight, especially between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm when the sun is at its strongest.

2. Wear protective clothing and a hat to protect your skin from the sun's rays.

3. Avoid contact with hazardous chemicals such as acids, alkalis, solvents, varnishes and paints. If you work with such substances, wear protective clothing and gloves.

4. Avoid close contact with hot surfaces such as stoves and hot pots and pans.

5. Do not leave children unattended near hot objects or open flames.

6. Remember that electricity can cause burns, so keep an eye on your electrical wiring and avoid touching electrical appliances with wet hands.

7. When going on a camping or picnic, use special protective equipment to prevent burns from fires and grills.

8. Do not smoke in bed as this may cause a fire.

In case of burns, apply first aid immediately and, if necessary, seek medical attention. By following simple precautions, you can reduce the risk of burns and avoid serious consequences.