Burns are nasty, but can happen easily while cooking, having a barbecue or when working with fire. Find out all you need to know about burns and how you can treat them effectively.
ABOUT
Burns from 1 to 3: Know the different degrees of burns
First degree (superficial) burns: these are the lightest degree of burns you can suffer from, and they affect only the epidermis. The burned area is red, slightly swollen, painful, dry, and without blisters. Mild sunburn is an example. Long-term tissue damage from these burns is rare.
Second degree burns: these involve the epidermis and part of the underlying dermis layer of the skin. Often scald injuries or flames cause them. The burn appears red, blistered, swollen and painful.
HOW DEEPLY IS YOUR
SKIN AFFECTED?Third degree burns: third degree burns destroy the epidermis and the dermis and may also even damage the underlying subcutaneous tissue, bones, muscles and tendons. The burn site appears white or charred. There is no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.
TREATMENT
Five steps when treating burns and scalds
Never put fat or butter onto burns or remove anything that is stuck to the skin, such as clothing. When in doubt, ask for medical advice.
When to seek medical advice:
Even for first and second degree burns you should seek medical advice if the burned area is large or if after initial pain relief the burned area again shows signs of infection such as redness, heat, swelling, pain, itching or burning.
Further, medical attention is necessary if a child is burned, if the burn is on sensitive parts of the body e.g. on the face, or if you have any questions or concerns.
For third-degree burns you should always seek medical attention immediately.
SOLUTIONS
You might want to try these products:
Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional.
PREVENTION
How to prevent burns – some safety tips
Fortunately, many burns can be prevented. Most of them happen in the heart of the home - the kitchen. Here are a few tips to help you make your kitchen a safer place.
- Always stay in the kitchen while food is cooking. Don’t get distracted by phone calls, someone calling from another room etc.
- Wear protective oven gloves when taking something out of a hot oven.
- Turn pot and pan handles toward the back or center of the stove so that they won’t turn over.
- Keep items such as dish towels, plastic bags, and long sleeves away from the heating surface.
- Never cook while holding a child or pet.
- Keep small children and pets away from the front of the oven or stove.
Preventing Scalding Burns
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Never warm baby bottles in the microwave; they may heat unevenly and can burn your baby’s mouth.
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Be careful when handling kettles, pots and lids of pots with boiling liquid. Steam can easily scald your wrist and hands.
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It‘s a good idea to turn pot handles toward the back or center of the stove so children cannot tip pots over.
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Keep hot liquids like soup, coffee, or tea away from the edge of counters and tables.
Also make sure to seek medical help if you are not able to clean the wound properly.
In case you have diabetes a proper wound care is of special importance. Always discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor and/or podiatrist, even for the care of minor wounds and skin cracks – especially on your feet.
Please note that none of the above given tips or recommendations substitute medical advice. Carefully read the instructions for use given in our products‘ packages. Important: consult a health professional in case of any uncertainity of treating your wound properly.
The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care or advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, you should consult your doctor. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it, because of something you have read on this website.
For further information regarding Elastoplast products, please contact us via email on Australia.ConsumerServices@Beiersdorf.com. Carefully read the instructions for use given in our products‘ packages.
Although compiled with great care, please note that the tips and advice given on this website by no means substitute medical advice and treatment. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult a doctor and follow medical advice regardless of what you have learned on this website. Always read carefully and follow the instructions for use or the leaflets of our products. For further information about our products, please contact us here.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.