What To Do When You Get A Burn?
Exposing yourself too much to the sun without proper protection can cause a burn that can vary in severity.
The first thing to do when you suffer a burn on any part of the body is to wet the affected part with cold water. This should be done as soon as possible to calm the skin and prevent blisters from forming.
If we have ice within our reach, so much the better. We will wrap a few ice cubes with a thin cloth and put it on the burn. We will notice relief instantly. It is not advisable to put the ice directly on the skin, therefore it is necessary to use a thin cloth.
As this study points out, after a burn has occurred, it is necessary to drink plenty of water to keep the body well hydrated. Likewise, it is essential to try to protect the area with light cotton clothing, as they promote perspiration and do not impede ventilation. Under no circumstances should the burn be exposed to sunlight, as it could worsen the discomfort.
Classification of burns
Burns can be classified into different degrees. This allows us to know how serious it is and to take certain measures in this regard:
- First degree burns (mild). The skin is only slightly red and the burning is slight. There is no presence of blisters. For example, a chafing burn.
- Second degree burns : the skin is red and the burning is somewhat more intense. Yes there are blisters in the affected area. For example, when we get burned with an iron.
- Third degree burns : the affected tissue has been destroyed and affects the deeper layers of the skin. In some cases, the muscles or bone can be seen. This can happen if we burn ourselves with hot oil.
Treatment of minor burns
When you suffer a burn as severe as third degree, you should go immediately to a hospital. On the other hand, if the burn is mild, first or second degree, the following must be done.
- Remove clothing and jewelry from the affected area to promote ventilation and to prevent interference when it comes time to treat the burn.
- Wet the affected area with cold water or use ice (as we mentioned earlier).
- If the blisters have pus and ooze yellow or greenish fluid, there is probably an infection. In this case, you have to go to the doctor.
- If blisters have come out, do not pop them.
- We will apply soothing creams suitable for burns.
- We should not cover the burn, but leave it in the open air.
- We should not apply aloe vera, toothpaste or oil, because the symptoms will get worse.
When should you go to the doctor?
You should go to a hospital when you have suffered very extensive or deep burns. For example, when these burns are produced by boiling water, electricity or corrosive substances.
Similarly, you should see a doctor if the burns have affected the face, genitals, feet and hands. Especially if the person has some type of heart or respiratory disease.
In any of these cases, it is recommended to place wet cloths while waiting to be seen by a health professional.
Is aloe vera recommended to treat a burn?
Despite the fact that aloe vera is often recommended in the popular sphere to treat superficial burns, disinfect the wound and promote its healing, it is necessary to be cautious with its use. This is because not all skins react favorably to this substance (either due to sensitivity or another factor), which can also be contaminated if it is handled in the wrong way (which is usually common when it is extracted directly from the plant at home) .
On the other hand, even when the aloe vera gel is in a container (that is, it is a commercial product), it is necessary to give priority to the care for burns mentioned above (washing the area, applying a compress cold, etc.) to get relief.
Nor is it recommended to apply propolis, honey, or vitamin E capsules on burns as a first measure. Much less without the authorization of the health, since adverse reactions, such as an allergy, could occur.
In case the measures applied do not help to obtain relief, the most appropriate thing is to go to the doctor as soon as possible and follow his instructions. A burn requires professional care and should not be overlooked.
