The Nature and Treatment of a First Degree Burn

It should be noted that burns are often categorized based on the amount of tissue that has been damaged. In first degree burns, the skin is often painful, red and swollen. In the second degree burn, the affected area is painful, swollen and pink or red. Blisters that contain a clear fluid usually accompany this kind of burn. In the 3rd degree burn, there is no pain because the nerves have been damaged. The skin may be bright red, black or white in color and it may be leathery to the touch. The first degree burn is frequently encountered by many people, especially children who can get it by touching water that is more than 49 degrees Centigrade in temperature.

Skin that has suffered a first degree burn is often reddish in color, slightly swollen, moist and itchy. A sunburn can be classified under this category. When the affected skin is pressed lightly, it blanches or turns white. Fortunately, this kind of burn does not leave a scar not does it blister. However, it is often painful and sensitive to touch. However, while first degree burn treatment is often done in the home, there are certain situations when consulting a physician may be recommended. These include the situation when the affected area is very large, when it was due to an electric shock, or when it is found on the feet, hands, face or genitals. Otherwise, when treating this kind of burn at home, common techniques include cooling the affected area with cold water or applying skin cream containing aloe vera extract.

If you are in doubt as to the classification of the burn injury, it may be advisable to consult a doctor. The degree is not the only basis used by doctors to assess the severity of the burn. First of all, the physician will examine the depth of the burn and the amount of tissue that has been damaged. Therefore, first degree burns that have affected less than 15 percent of the adult's body or less than 10 percent of a child's body are classified as minor. If the areas affected are bigger, they are considered as moderate or severe burns.

As a rule, the first degree burn that affects less than 10 percent of a child's body and less than 15 percent of an adult's body can be treated at home. As indicated above, cold water can be used on the affected area. However, ice water or ice are not recommended because they can cause further damage to the tissue. An antiseptic cleanser can be applied on the area and then the pain can be treated topically with aloe vera-containing cream. Pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen, may also be taken to reduce the pain and inflammation. A sterile gauze pad may be applied on the area but this should be dry and the bandage should not have an adhesive to allow air to get in.