Treatment Recommendations for Minor Burns

Severe burns can be life-threatening as they might lead to a serious infection. However, burns are also extremely painful, disfiguring and difficult to cope with. But what about minor or first-degree burns? These burns are also serious in their own way and, therefore, they need to be treated appropriately to prevent themselves from getting hurt.

If you or a loved one have a first-degree burn, whether it happens in the kitchen, at the office or when you’re out on the town, let’s take a look at what you should do to treat the injury:

  • Look for the signs: First-degree burn signs involve redness, pain, dry and peeling skin, and minor swelling and inflammation.
  • If the burn covers more than three inches and it's on the ankle, knee, spine, shoulder, forearm, elbow or foot, then you should definitely go to see your doctor.
  • Soak the burn in cool water after it happens. Soak for at least five minutes but you can even go longer.
  • Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.
  • Try an aloe vera gel that contains lidocaine, which is an anesthetic. This can soothe and cool the affected area.
  • Use an ointment with a loose gauze laid over top to protect the area that was affected.

Contrary to popular belief, things like ice, eggs, butter or applying cotton balls are not a good way to treat first-degree burns. These and other things could increase the likelihood of infection, so if there is any question about how to treat your wound, always consult a doctor or physician.

If you or a loved one has been seriously burned in Los Angeles, you might be able to pursue compensation in court by speaking with a qualified personal injury lawyer. At Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP, we have lawyers on staff who are available to talk to you about your potential burn injury claim.

Categories: 
Related Posts
  • Texas Student Suffers 3rd-Degree Burns During Reckless Science Experiment Read More
  • Daily Journal Showcases GBW’s $3.5 Million Burn Injury Settlement Read More
  • Scalding Burns Can Be Prevented With Specific Steps Read More
/