Classification of burns
The skin is made of three main layers. The epidermis is the outermost layer and is made up of keratin. The middle layer is called the dermis. It is made up of elastin and collagen, and contains nerves, blood vessels, hair follicles and sweat glands. The hypodermis is the third layer, and contains larger blood vessels as well as nerves.
Classification of a burn depends on the depth of the burn. The shallowest is a first-degree burn, which affects the top layer only. Second-degree burns affect both the top and the middle layer. A third degree burn affects all three layers and is the most serious burn.
Burns are also classified according to its position on the body and what element is responsible for the burn. Critical burns include electrical or chemical burns. A burn is also considered critical if it is on the face or throat and interferes with breathing, if it is accompanies by a fracture, or if the individual is very young or elderly.
Types of burns
Burns can result from a number of stimuli. Heat is probably the most common type of burn and occurs as a result of an object that is hot enough to cause a burn. This can be a flame, liquid, steam or a solid object. A chemical burn is the most serious type of burn because the chemical will continue to burn as long as it is in contact with the skin. Both alkalis and acids can result in this. An electrical burn happens when the skin is in contact with an electric current, and this type is also critical. Radiation is another type of burn, with the most common method being sunburn.
Treating burns
Different types of burns require different types of treatment, but there are a few key things you should do with any burn. The first thing to do is rinse the affected area under cool clean water. You should do this for at least twenty minutes. This should be avoided with an electrical burn. Try to remove any items of clothing or jewelry around the burn, but remember not to remove anything that is already stuck. If the burn is minor you can dress it with special dressing, but be sure not to tape any of the burned area. If the burn is serious then you should get to the emergency room immediately.
Things to avoid doing when treating a burn
When it comes to a burn try your best not to touch it. Don’t break the blister that forms over it, as this may lead to infection. If there is any clothing stuck to it don’t remove it. Many people believe that using butter or oil will make it better, but that is a myth. Don’t use these things on a burn. If you are going to dress the burn try not to use materials that will stick to it like cotton wool. Don’t apply ice to a burn, as that will result in even more tissue damage.
