The wound could be infected if there is expanding redness around the wound some redness on the edges of the wound is normal , yellow or green drainage, or if you develop a fever unrelated to other illness. Most burns that heal within three weeks will not scar with proper sun protection.
However, a person's ethnic background or genetic predisposition to scarring will also affect cosmetic appearance and potential for scarring. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server.
Please enable scripts and reload this page. Menu Search. Burn Center. About Burns. Page Content. Common Causes of Burns Fire and flame injuries are most common causes, followed by scalds, contact with a hot object, and electrical injuries.
Understanding Skin To understand different kinds of burns, it is helpful to know about skin. Your skin: Acts as a physical barrier for you to the outside world Protects you against infection and injury Provides a water-tight barrier Helps regulate body temperature Contains glands that lubricate and moisturize your skin Undergoes constant repair and regeneration Lacerations, abrasions or burns alter the skin's ability to protect and buffer you from your surroundings.
Anatomy of the Skin The epidermis is the thin top layer of the skin. Types of Burns First-Degree or Superficial Burns A first-degree burn is damage to the first or outer layer of skin epidermis. Second-degree burns are divided into two categories based upon the depth of the burn: Superficial second-degree burns typically heal with conservative care no surgery required in one to three weeks.
Topical medications are placed on the burn wound. Daily wound bandage changes are the norm. New epidermis grows in one to three weeks with proper wound care. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.
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Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Main Content. The severe damage to the skin makes the body more susceptible to pathogens. Burns can also weaken the immune system, meaning the body is less capable of fighting off infection. In particular, acquiring pneumonia and sepsis infections are common and potentially fatal complications. A doctor can usually diagnose the severity of a burn by examining the affected area.
They may also ask questions about the cause of the burn, any other injuries, and whether the person has any other medical conditions. A doctor may classify a severe burn under the following criteria :.
According to the World Health Organization WHO , any third degree burn requires immediate hospitalization and treatment. Individuals with this type of burn usually receive treatment at a special burn unit.
People can also cover the area with a sterile bandage, attempt to separate fingers and toes if burned, and, if possible, elevate the burned area above the heart. The treatment a person receives will depend on the extent, severity, and location of the burn. Treatment for third degree burns may include :. Third degree burns are serious and require immediate medical attention.
Without treatment, they can be fatal. The WHO estimate that burns cause roughly , deaths every year, while non-fatal burn injuries are a leading cause of morbidity. Children and older adults are particularly at risk. Research suggests that after car accidents and drowning, burns are the most frequent cause of childhood death. The American Burn Association provide resources allowing people to search for their nearest burn center in the United States. Treatment for third degree burns continues after a person leaves the hospital.
While the recovery period differs for everyone, people commonly report feeling pain, fatigue, and itching. In addition to care from medical staff, patients can also draw support from family and friends. Visitors and caregivers play an important role during the recovery process. It is important for family members and friends to also take care of themselves for example, housing, food, and care of children. It can be helpful to coordinate visiting times amongst friends and family members.
Family members should also assign one person to be the main point of contact with medical staff. This person should be an adult who is available to talk with the burn team.
Fact sheets about burn injuries are a great source of information. Fact sheets from the Burn Model System discuss many topics related to burn injury, such as sleep problems, body image, social interactions, and nutrition.
They cover exercise and employment after a burn injury. Feeling anxious and afraid is common after a traumatic injury. Several local and national support systems offer support and suggestions about burn injuries. Patients and family members and friends should ask the healthcare team about options for support systems. This group is made up of burn survivors and their family members.
They are trained to offer support and can schedule a visit and share their recovery process. The Phoenix Society offers a support program in more than 60 hospitals and burn clinics throughout North America. Understanding a Burn Injury was developed by Laura C.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to replace the advice of a medical professional. You should consult your healthcare provider about specific medical concerns or treatment. The contents of this fact sheet do not necessarily represent the policy of the U. Department of Health and Human Services, and you should not assume endorsement by the federal government. May be reproduced and distributed freely with appropriate attribution.
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