The Mayo News

Going for the burn


Skin specialist
Bernie Fahy

Burns are, unfortunately, a fact of life. All burns – whether it’s a slight burn thanks to a brush with the edge of the iron or a more serious injury – have one thing in common: the element of surprise. However, the kind of treatment you pursue will not only help you cope with the pain, it can also determine the level of scarring, if any, you sustain.

Know your degrees
Burns are medically graded by degrees. First-degree burns, also known as ‘superficial burns’, may cause redness but don’t break the skin. Pain subsides within a few minutes or hours. Second-degree burns or ‘partial thickness’ cause swelling, lingering pain and blistering. Third-degree burns or ‘full thickness’ involve all layers of the skin often including the subcutaneous fatty tissue. Initially, no sensation may be felt due to nerve damage. The skin can appear charred and white to mahogany in colour. Extreme pain is experienced during recovery.
With regards to first and second-degree burns, no larger than the palm of your hand, cool the skin by immersing it in cold water or applying a cold compress. Avoid placing ice directly onto burned skin. If you receive a first-degree or small second-degree chemical burn, rinse under running water for at least 20 minutes. Do not apply butter or ointments. Margarine, grease and petroleum jelly should not be employed in the relief of burns. Always seek medical advice if there are signs of infection.
Second-degree burns larger than palms of hands require immediate medical attention. Elevate the damaged area to stop swelling as you wait to see a GP or ambulance crew. Avoid breaking blisters as this increases the risk of infection. There are currently useful products available over the counter in pharmacies to store at home. The alternative remedies that follow should be used on first-degree burns. Larger second- and all third-degree burns need medical advice.

Treating minor burns
Aloe is a natural anti-inflammatory that promotes skin growth and provides pain relief. Minor burns and cuts treated with aloe-vera gel have also healed faster, without any side effects. Allergies to aloe vera are rare.
Vitamin C can be used, but only under professional guidance. This vitamin has been found to keep basal layers of the skin from contracting whilst upper layers are injured, helping the skin to regenerate with little scarring.
One of the skin’s functions is to protect underlying tissue and shield us from environmental damage. It is the front-line soldier in cases of fire or chemical burn. Skin is the largest organ the body possesses. By following safe guidelines and professional advice, damage may be minimised and managed successfully. Try to be prepared with first-aid knowledge and a home first-aid kit. If in doubt, seek professional medical assistance. Carefully source proven remedies – either prescription or holistic – and make sure you have the foresight to save your own skin.

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