Burns and Burn Treatments

There are an estimated 4,500 deaths and 45,000 hospitalizations per year in the United States as a result of burn-related injuries. A burn is a type of injury to the skin caused by heat, electricity, chemicals or radiation. Types of burns are divided into 3 categories; first degree, second degree and third degree. Each type of burn must be treated in a specific manner and it is important to know how to recognize each form of burn as well as the treatment methods used in each specific situation. Treating a burn in an incorrect manner can cause serious harm to the victim. Here is a summary of each form of burn as well as treatment methods for each:

1. First Degree Burns - This is the least serious type of burn and will usually heal on its own within a couple days. First degree burns typically heal completely and rarely result in any form of scarring. This type of burn injures the epidermis (top layer of skin) and usually produces a pink or reddish color on the area of skin which is burnt.

Treatment