Burns
Burns can result from dry heat like fire, moist heat such as steam or hot liquids, electricity, chemicals, and from too much sun.
They are graded by degree from first degree to 3rd degree. 1st degree is the least serious.
Self-care is most appropriate for first-degree and some small second-degree burns.
1st Degree Burns: Skin is red but not broken. Only the outer layer of skin is affected. Mild sunburns and brief contact with a hot object are examples of first degree burns. Area may be dry, red, and slightly swollen. It will be painful and sensitive to touch. First degree burns should feel better within a day or two, and should heal in about a week if there are no other problems.
First Aid for 1st Degree Burns Cool the area right away by placing the affected area in a container of cold water or under cold running water until the pain is relieved.
Keep the area uncovered and elevated, if possible.
Do not use butter or other ointments right away.
Apply fresh aloe gel which is cooling and draws heat out.
Soak a clean piece of gauze in some chamomile tea and apply over the burned area.
For the next few days, watch for signs of infection (fever, chills, increased redness, swelling, or pus) or if the affected area is still painful.
For sunburn, wash the area in a solution of 1 part water and 3 parts apple cider vinegar to remove redness. you can dab on with a cloth or cotton balls. Smells strong, but is very effective!
2nd Degree Burns When blisters appear, and affect the skin's lower layers as well as the outer skin, which is painful and swollen. The skin may develop a weepy, watery surface. Examples of second degree burns are severe sunburn, burns caused by hot liquids and a flash from gasoline. First aid procedures can be used to treat many second degree burns, but they may also require medical attention.
First Aid For Second Degree Burns Since the skin is likely broken, your aim should be to relieve pain, cool and clean the area, and prevent infection. If possible, immerse affected area in cold (but not iced)water until the pain subsides. Or, soak clean cloths in cold water, and apply repeatedly to the burned area for up to an hour. Blot the area dry, but do not rub.
Dress the area with a single layer of loose gauze, making sure that it doesn't stick to the skin. Hold it in place with first aid tape placed well away from the burned area. Change the dressing daily for as long as it is required to keep the area clean.
If possible, try to prop the burnt area higher than the rest of the body.
3rd Degree Burns Entire thickness of skin is involved and nerve endings have been damaged.
Always seek medical help for this type of burn. Third degree burns can affect the outer and deeper skin layers, and even underlying tissue and organs. They may look black, or charred. Skin will be swollen and underlying tissue may beexposed. There is generally less pain with third degree burns may be less than with first or second degree burns. Or there may be be no pain at all if nerve endings are damaged.
Third degree burns always require emergency treatment.
What Else You Can Do As soon as possible, administer a dose of Arnica 30C to minimize swelling and shock. Repeat three times every 20 minutes.
Once the stinging or the burning sensation of the skin disappears, an herbal salve can be applied to speed healing and minimize scarring.
Calendula Cream is a good choice for fighting infection and reducing inflammation.
Aloe Gel is very effective at relieving pain and to speed healing. If you have an aloe plant in your home, you can cut a fresh leaf open and apply the gel directly several times daily.
ComfreyRootcontains a substance called allatoin which is very useful for cell regeneration, and to reduce scarring.
Echinacea helps boost immune system to fight off infection.
Consume plenty of fluids. Drinking lots of pure water will keep the body hydrated, which is vital for a speedy recovery.
Avoid exposure to the sun and hot showers or baths.
While the body is recovering it's important to get lots of nutrients to assist the healing process. Eat an abundance of whole foods with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.
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