Urgent treatment for a burn depends on the severity of the burn. For minor burns, immediate first aid measures can be taken at home, including:
- Soaking the wound in cool water for five minutes or longer. This helps to reduce pain and minimize tissue damage.
- Applying aloe vera gel or cream to soothe the skin. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
- Using an antibiotic ointment and loose gauze to protect the affected area. This helps to prevent infection.
If you suspect a burn is serious, seek immediate medical attention. Serious burns may require:
- Specialized wound care: This may include debridement (removal of dead tissue) and skin grafting.
- Pain management: Medications such as opioids may be necessary to manage pain.
- Intravenous fluids: This is necessary to replace lost fluids and prevent dehydration.
- Antibiotics: To prevent infection.
Urgent care centers can treat minor to moderate burns. However, severe burns require immediate attention in an emergency room.
Signs of a serious burn that require urgent medical attention include:
- Large burns: Any burn that covers more than 10% of the body surface area.
- Deep burns: Burns that penetrate all layers of the skin (third-degree burns).
- Burns on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.
- Burns caused by chemicals or electricity.
Always seek immediate medical attention if you are unsure about the severity of a burn.
