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Burn 1 degree in a child and adult: signs and what to do
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

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One of the most common household injuries is a 1st degree burn. Let's consider its types, causes, pathogenesis, symptoms, as well as methods of treatment and prevention.
Thermal, radiation, chemical or electrical damage to body tissues is a burn. When exposed to different substances, combined wounds may occur. The mildest form is considered to be the first degree. It is characterized by a superficial violation of the epidermis. Most often, the pathological condition occurs due to short-term contact with hot liquids, objects or prolonged exposure to the sun.
The severity of the wound depends on the depth and extent of the damage. There are 4 degrees, with the first degree injuries being the most superficial. The higher the degree of damage, the more difficult the treatment. Minor injuries cause sharp pain, swelling and redness. Gradually, the epidermis acquires a bright scarlet or red color and stands out above healthy tissue. At the same time, watery blisters or scars do not always appear on the skin. The healing process occurs without any complications, cosmetic or functional defects. As a rule, complete recovery is observed after 2-3 days. The superficial layer of the epithelium is rejected, leaving healthy skin.
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Epidemiology
According to the World Health Organization, the epidemiology of mild burns occupies a leading place among other injuries. Burn injuries in America and Japan amount to 250-300 cases per 100 thousand people. In Ukraine, this is approximately 200 cases per 100 thousand people, of which up to 30% require medical care.
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Causes 1st degree burns
The main causes of a first-degree burn are thermal, chemical, radiation, and electrical effects on the skin or mucous membranes. Let's look at each of the possible causes in more detail:
- Thermal exposure – a pathological condition occurs with direct contact with boiling water, steam or fire.
- Fire – the upper respiratory tract and face are most often injured. If other parts of the body are damaged, difficulties arise associated with removing burnt clothing. This can cause an infectious infection.
- Hot objects – a clear trace of a hot object remains at the site of injury. Such wounds can be both superficial and quite deep.
- Boiling water - the wound area is small, but painful and deep.
- Steam – causes shallow tissue damage to the upper respiratory tract.
The degree of thermal damage depends on the temperature, thermal conductivity, duration of exposure, general health and skin condition of the patient.
- Chemical injuries – occur due to aggressive chemical substances coming into contact with the skin. The degree of damage depends on the concentration of the agent and the duration of contact with it. The most common damage is caused by the following substances:
- Acids and alkalis – cause shallow wounds. A crust forms on the skin, which prevents further penetration of the acid into the tissue. Deep wounds are formed when exposed to alkali.
- Heavy metal salts – cause superficial injuries.
- Electrical burns are caused by interaction with a conductive material. The current spreads through tissues, through blood and other body fluids, bones, skin and fatty tissue. There is an entry and exit point for the current on the victim's body. This type of injury is characterized by a small area but deep damage.
- Radiation exposure – the pathological condition may be associated with ultraviolet, infrared or ionizing radiation. Its severity depends on the duration of exposure to the skin.
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Risk factors
The most common risk factors that can cause both first-degree damage and more serious injuries are identified:
- Boiling water and hot liquids (hot oil).
- Chemicals (acids, technical liquids, various solvents).
- Kitchen steam.
- Contact with electricity.
The method of first aid and further treatment depends on the cause of the injury and the nature of the impact on the mucous membranes or skin.
Pathogenesis
First-degree burns are characterized by affecting only the superficial layer of the epidermis. Pathogenesis consists of the following changes: redness, swelling, painful sensations. The sensitivity of the burned area increases significantly, so the area of injury causes discomfort.
A special role in the mechanism of the origin of the pathological condition is played by the inflammatory response to trauma, which goes through the cellular and vascular phases. In the wound area, the permeability of the vessels increases, which facilitates the rapid penetration of proteins and serum macromolecules. Visually, this manifests itself as hyperemia and edema. When the integrity of the skin is violated, the nonspecific immune system is activated. It is represented by serum and cellular components. They accelerate the process of blood clotting, activate the fibrinolytic and complementary systems.
Specific immunity or the third protective reaction of the body to damage is provided by thymus-dependent and bone marrow lymphocytes. This allows to reduce the risk of sepsis and tissue necrosis in large burn injuries of the last stages.
Symptoms 1st degree burns
Mild burn injuries are characterized by damage to the most functionally insignificant epidermal layer of the skin. This area is constantly renewed. Thus, in a healthy person, millions of epidermal cells exfoliate within 24 hours.
Such wounds are limited in nature. There may also be widespread isolated superficial injuries in combination with more severe injuries. In this case, they are most often found on the following parts of the body: face, eyes, scalp, upper respiratory tract, limbs, torso.
Symptoms of a first-degree burn are as follows: reddening of the skin, inflammation and swelling, painful sensations. After a couple of days, the skin dries and wrinkles, forming a slight pigmentation that disappears within 3-5 days. At the same time, there are no rough scars or cosmetic defects.
First signs
Most first-degree burns occur due to excessive exposure to solar radiation or household injuries (boiling water, steam, hot or scorching liquids). Extensive lesions are dangerous, as there is a risk of dehydration and intoxication with toxic tissue breakdown products. In order to recognize pathological changes, it is necessary to pay attention to the first signs of pathology:
- Painful redness on the skin.
- Dizziness and headaches.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Dehydration.
- Chills, feverish state.
- Rapid breathing and pulse.
First aid and further treatment begin with eliminating the factor that caused the injury and cooling the affected area. This will reduce discomfort and speed up the recovery process. If the injury is accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the skin, then you should consult a doctor, since even with minor damage there is a risk of infection.
1st degree facial burn
Facial burns are especially dangerous and scary. The first degree of this injury is considered the mildest, but still causes pain and a temporary cosmetic defect. But if the area and depth of the injury are extensive, the marks may remain for life. Tissue damage may be due to exposure to high temperatures or chemicals. This type of burn is classified depending on the external factors that provoked it. Further treatment and rehabilitation will depend on them.
- Thermal – the most dangerous damage, as it destroys complex proteins, i.e. the basis of cells and tissues. It appears due to the effect of high temperatures on the skin. In case of burns caused by fire, the entire face is in the crosshairs. Hot liquids, most often boiling water, provoke local shallow damage. In this case, steam injures not only the face, but also the upper respiratory tract.
- Chemical – wounds can be caused by various cosmetic procedures (fruit acid peeling, acid peeling), low-quality cosmetics, various medications or household chemicals. A shallow, but hyperemic and painful burn appears on the face.
- Electrical – occur very rarely and result in small but deep wounds.
- Beam, light, ionizing – trauma caused by radiation. Tissue damage is superficial, and with timely and correct treatment passes without a trace.
A first-degree facial burn is accompanied by swelling, pain, and redness. The epidermis takes 3-4 days to recover. The dead cells peel off without leaving any traces.
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1st degree eye burn
Minor damage to the eyelids, cornea and conjunctiva when exposed to high temperatures, chemicals or rays is a 1st degree eye burn. Under the influence of the above factors, the eyelids reflexively contract, protecting the surface of the eyeball from injury. The severity of the injury, the severity of the pain syndrome and the appearance of the eyes depend on the depth of the wound.
Symptoms:
- Persistent redness and inflammation of the conjunctiva and skin of the eyelids.
- Edema and slight clouding of the cornea.
- Photophobia.
- Decreased visual acuity.
- Increased intraocular pressure.
- Headaches and mild dizziness.
Painful burn symptoms begin to gradually increase over 5-8 hours. The victim feels intense pain and photophobia, increased lacrimation, and eyelid spasms appear. If the retina is not damaged, recovery occurs within 3-4 days.
If the pathological condition is associated with the effect of UV rays of a certain wavelength on the conjunctiva, this indicates electrophotophthalmia. Eye burns from welding cause damage to cell membranes, which entails an inflammatory process with painful sensations. Even mild degrees of trauma cause severe discomfort. Powerful and long-term effects on the eyes can lead to damage to the retina and cell death, which will ultimately cause vision loss.
Treatment is aimed at eliminating painful sensations. It is necessary to carefully wash the eyes with a cotton wool soaked in clean water. In case of acid burns, a soda solution is indicated for washing, and in case of alkali, a 2% solution of boric acid. After this, you can take painkillers, put anesthetic drops in the eyes and place the victim in a dark place.
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1st degree corneal burn
According to medical statistics, about 40% of patients with partial or complete loss of vision have suffered a corneal burn. It is the upper shell of the eye (transparent hemisphere) on which light rays are refracted. It is very sensitive, so any injury can worsen vision or deprive it. A 1st degree corneal burn does not cause such consequences, but without properly provided first aid it can worsen vision.
The main causes of burns:
- Getting steam or splashes of heated liquids, flames into the eyes. The cornea is damaged at temperatures above 45 degrees.
- Contact with chemicals in the eyes: organic solvents, household chemicals, disinfectants, tear gas, etc.
- Long-term exposure to bright light. This could be welding, UV radiation.
The pathological condition of the superficial layers of the epithelium is accompanied by swelling of the skin of the eyelids and dimming of the eye. The victim may experience headache, decreased visual acuity, photophobia and lacrimation, blepharospasm and a sensation of a foreign body in the eye. The injury is treated on an outpatient basis (eye rinsing and bandages with antiseptic solutions), recovery takes 3-4 days, the burn disappears without a trace and does not affect vision.
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1st degree boiling water burn
The most common household injury is a 1st degree boiling water burn. To get it, it is enough to spill boiled water on the skin. Children and elderly people often suffer from such injuries due to their attentiveness.
Main symptoms:
- Redness of the skin.
- Minor swelling.
- The appearance of bubbles containing clear liquid.
- Increased sensitivity.
- Painful sensations.
The first stage of injury does not require medical attention, so treatment can be done at home. First of all, it is necessary to remove the clothes that were exposed to boiling water and cool the skin with running water for 15-20 minutes. If the integrity of the skin is damaged, then cooling the wound area is contraindicated. After this, it is necessary to apply an ointment against burns, an antiseptic bandage or a clean piece of cotton fabric.
It is strictly forbidden to puncture burn blisters or tear off stuck clothes from the body, as this can cause an infectious infection. You cannot apply any oils to the skin or cauterize it with alcohol, iodine, or brilliant green. Also prohibited are folk methods of treatment: wetting the epidermis with kefir and other fermented milk products, this can provoke an inflammatory reaction and infection.
1st degree burn of the hand
First-degree hand burns are very common in medical practice. Such injuries occur both at home and at work. The mild stage is characterized by superficial damage to the skin. A slight swelling and redness form on the hand.
Let's look at the main causes of burn injuries to the hand:
- Boiling water – most often found in everyday life. Red watery blisters form on burnt tissue. For treatment, it is necessary to cool the skin and apply a special ointment or antiseptic bandage.
- Steam – occurs both in everyday life and at work. Minor damage does not require medical intervention, and more serious wounds should be treated only in medical institutions. The wound area should be cooled for 10-15 minutes, gently washed with soapy water and dried. Apply anti-burn ointment to the wound, without rubbing. If there is severe pain, then you should take painkillers.
- Oil – causes more serious and painful damage than boiling water or other liquids. To minimize injury, the burned limb should be placed under running water. This will cool the skin and help wash away the remains of the hot oil. If redness appears, but without blisters, then you can apply burn cream to the wound without a sterile bandage. In this case, the skin around the wound should be treated with diluted alcohol. If there are blisters with water, then after applying the ointment, a sterile bandage should be applied and changed every two hours.
The recovery period for all the above-described causes of pathology takes no more than 3-5 days. If self-treatment does not work and the inflammation lasts longer than two days, then you should consult a doctor.
Esophagus burn 1st degree
Swallowing hot food or mild damage from various substances is a 1st degree esophageal burn. It can be thermal or chemical. Thermal burns occur when swallowing hot liquids and food. But chemical injuries are more often diagnosed. They occur when swallowing aggressive liquids: concentrated acids, alkalis, ammonia, potassium permanganate solution, acetone, industrial alcohol, and others.
Burn injury is accompanied by trauma to the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, stomach and pharynx. According to statistics, about 70% of victims are patients under ten years of age. The remaining 30% are adults who deliberately or accidentally consumed caustic liquids.
- Damage caused by acid is much easier to bear than by alkali. This is due to the fact that when acid gets on the mucous membrane of the esophagus, it forms a scab, which does not allow the reagent to penetrate into the deep layers of the organ. Since the acid contains water, this helps to reduce its concentration and release it from the tissues.
- Alkaline acids cause the destruction of proteins, saponification of fats, forming a gelatinous mass from the cells. Alkali easily passes through it, causing necrosis of the superficial and deep layers of the esophagus. This type of burn does not have a mild degree, since even a small amount of alkali can cause a hole in the esophagus.
Mild stage of esophageal damage is characterized by traumatization of the upper layer of soft epithelium. That is, internal soft tissues are not affected. The main signs of the pathological condition are: hyperemia and swelling of the mucosal walls, painful sensations in the gastrointestinal tract.
First aid consists of washing the stomach. The victim needs to drink more than 1 liter of clean water and induce vomiting. Medication is not required, since all signs of damage disappear within 10-20 days on their own. But it is still recommended to consult a doctor for prevention and to clarify the extent of damage. Medical assistance is also required if the burn is caused by a chemical substance and it needs to be neutralized.
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1st degree burn in a child
Domestic childhood injuries are quite common. First-degree burns in children are the most common and can be caused by the following factors: thermal energy, UV and ionizing radiation, chemicals, or electric current. According to medical statistics, more than half of burn injuries are thermal injuries (hot water, steam, hot objects, fire). According to the severity of the injury, they are divided into four stages. The first is the mildest and is a superficial lesion of the upper layer of the epidermis. Redness and swelling appear on the skin.
First aid for first-degree burns in children depends on the cause of the injury. Let's look at general recommendations aimed at improving the condition of the victim:
- If the injury is caused through clothing, it must be removed. This will prevent things from sticking to the burned skin and stop further traumatization. But you can undress the child if the clothing is easy to remove; tearing things off is contraindicated.
- Cool the damaged area with running water (the temperature should be about 15 °C). This will help remove heat from the deep layers of the skin. Cooling will reduce the severity of the inflammatory reaction, reduce swelling and stabilize the walls of blood vessels. This recommendation is acceptable for burns on the extremities. If the wound is on the torso or head, then it is necessary to apply cool bandages. Ice is prohibited, as it provokes vasoconstriction and slows down blood flow, increasing tissue destruction.
- After cooling, the affected part of the body should be raised above the level of the heart. This will reduce swelling.
- The next step is to prevent the skin from drying out. To do this, apply an anti-burn ointment or antiseptic to the wound and cover it with a bandage. This will prevent infection, relieve inflammation and speed up the recovery process.
Almost always, childhood injuries result in burn disease. This condition is the body's reaction to irritation of nerve endings and the entry of their decay products into the blood. Burn disease develops not only with serious injuries, but also with superficial ones. In this case, the child's condition worsens for a long period. The first pathological symptoms make themselves known 6-10 hours after the injury. Acute pain in the wound area and nervous excitement appear. This condition requires medical attention, since it will not go away on its own, but will only worsen, causing disorders of the urinary, respiratory and other body systems.
Normally, recovery takes 1-2 weeks and depends on the area and location of the lesion. As soon as the pain syndrome passes, the skin will begin to acquire a healthy color, peel and renew itself. If recovery is delayed, you should contact a pediatrician.
Forms
Burns are the most common cause of seeking medical help. Types of burns determine their origin and allow you to create an optimal treatment plan and prognosis for recovery. Let's look at the main burn classification (by cause):
- Thermal – occur when in contact with hot air, steam, boiling water, hot objects. Wounds can be mild, moderate, or severe on any part of the body.
- Electrical – most often appear when working with electrical equipment or when struck by lightning. Characterized not only by skin damage, but also by disorders of the cardiovascular, respiratory and other body systems. Even minor injuries cause dizziness and fainting.
- Radiation damage is damage caused by ultraviolet, ionizing and other types of radiation.
- Chemical – develops upon contact with aggressive substances. The degree of damage depends on the concentration of the reagent and its effect on the tissue.
There are mixed injuries, i.e. a combination of several types of burns and combined ones - a burn and injuries of another nature. Each type is divided into several categories. Thermal ones are divided into burns from fire, water, steam, hot objects. Chemical ones, in turn, are divided into damage by acids, alkaline solutions, salts of heavy metals, etc.
The pathological condition is classified not only by its origin, but also by its severity:
- 1st degree – superficial damage to the upper layers of the epidermis. Causes redness, swelling, pain and dysfunction of the affected area. Recovery is quick, without scarring.
- 2nd degree – this is a complete lesion of the superficial layers of the epidermis. The victim feels severe pain, blisters with liquid form on the skin.
- 3A degree – traumatization of all layers of the epidermis down to the dermis. A dry or soft burn crust forms on the wound area – a light-brown scab.
- 3B degree – all layers of the epidermis, dermis and partially hypodermis are affected. A dry, dense, dark crust is formed.
- 4th degree – all layers of skin, muscles, tendons and bones are affected. A black burn crust or charred areas form on the body.
The depth of a burn injury depends on the nature and temperature of the active agent, the duration of exposure and the degree of warming of the deep layers of the skin. Injuries are also divided by their ability to heal: superficial lesions (1, 2, 3A degree) and deep burns (3B, 4 degree). In the first case, the wounds heal on their own, without scarring. More serious injuries require medical care and surgery.
Thermal burn 1st degree
When high-temperature agents (liquid, steam) affect the skin, a person can get a first-degree thermal burn or more serious damage. According to medical statistics, this type of injury accounts for 90-95% of all burns. Thermal injuries to the respiratory tract are considered the most dangerous, as they cause swelling of the larynx, making breathing difficult. Injuries to the face and eyes are also dangerous.
With a mild burn, the superficial layer of the epidermis suffers. The skin turns red, swelling appears, sometimes blisters with liquid. The entire treatment process consists of providing first aid correctly.
- The affected area must be cooled under running water or with wet bandages for 15-20 minutes.
- After this, the skin needs to be dried and an anesthetic, anti-burn or antiseptic agent applied. The following preparations are most commonly used: Panthenol, Olazol, Amprovisol, Oleol.
- If blisters have formed on the wound, it is worth preparing an ointment bandage. The following products are recommended as ointments: Levoin, Flamazin, Dioxidin and other bactericidal drugs.
The skin recovers within 3-5 days. A dry scab forms at the site of the lesion, which quickly peels off, revealing a new layer of epidermis.
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1st degree sunburn
After prolonged exposure to the sun or in a solarium, first-degree sunburns occur. The symptoms of the pathological condition are gradual reddening of the skin over 12-24 hours, swelling and soreness. In some cases, blisters with liquid may appear. Due to dehydration of the body, the burned area begins to peel. Discomfort gradually passes, and the skin acquires a tan color.
Mild sun damage heals without medical assistance and leaves no marks on the skin. The most sensitive to ultraviolet radiation are the back, stomach and chest. At the same time, people with dark skin and dark hair are less sensitive to the sun's rays.
To minimize discomfort, you can apply Panthenol, Rescuer or another anti-burn agent to the skin. If first-degree burns cover a large area of the body, you should seek medical help. In this case, the inflammation will go away on its own 3-6 days after the injury.
Chemical burn 1st degree
Minor tissue damage caused by interaction with various acids, alkalis or heavy metal salts is a first-degree chemical burn. Most often, the injury occurs due to failure to comply with safety rules when working with aggressive substances, in household accidents or at work.
The depth of damage depends on the amount and concentration of the chemical, its strength and mechanism of action. At the first stage of damage, only the upper layer of the epidermis is injured. Symptoms are hyperemia, slight swelling, burning and pain.
First aid is indicated as treatment:
- First of all, you need to remove clothing from the damaged area without touching it. Rinse the skin with clean water for 10-20 minutes.
- If the injury occurred with hydrochloric acid, then the wound cannot be wetted, since when interacting with liquid, the acid releases heat, so it must be neutralized with a soda solution or soap solution.
- In case of alkali burns, neutralization is also necessary, which can be done with a weak vinegar solution, citric acid or boric acid.
- The burned area should dry, after which you can apply ointment and a sterile bandage.
Skin recovery takes on average 5 to 7 days.
Complications and consequences
A burn of any degree is alarming, as it can provoke various consequences and complications. The risk of developing a pathological condition increases significantly if the lesion, even of a mild form, occupies more than 30% of the body area or occurs in infants or elderly patients. Improper provision of first aid also leaves a negative imprint on further recovery.
There are so-called late complications of burns, which include: infectious lesions, sepsis, internal bleeding, increased metabolism and local problems.
- Many victims experience burn exhaustion. This consequence is associated with a burn wound and prolonged intoxication of the body with tissue decay products, microorganisms and their waste products. General weakness and lethargy, irritability, sleep and appetite disturbances appear. Disorders of the digestive system and liver are also possible due to protein deficiency.
- Infection and sepsis – pose a threat to life within 36 hours after the injury. Harmful microorganisms penetrate the wound, causing a sharp increase in temperature and symptoms of intoxication. For treatment, the burn is regularly treated with antiseptic solutions and ointments. Antibiotics may also be taken.
- Internal bleeding – occurs due to the formation of acute or so-called stress ulcers. To prevent this condition, sucralfate, antacids or histamine blockers are used. They maintain the pH of the gastric contents at a normal level.
- Hypermetabolism – develops in victims of 2-3 degree burns with damage volume of more than 50% of the total body area. Such injuries are a large metabolic load. It takes 5-7 days to restore the normal functioning of the body. Patients experience a sharp increase in temperature and it persists for a long period of time. Intestinal and gastric dysfunction is possible, therefore intensive parenteral nutrition and maintenance of water balance are indicated.
A first-degree burn does not cause serious complications. The only thing that victims have to deal with is pain shock, redness and blisters on the skin. More serious injuries can cause complications such as muscle atrophy, tachycardia, anemia, hypotension, severe swelling, neuritis, toxemia, etc. In this case, the patient will have to undergo long-term treatment and a difficult rehabilitation period.
How long does it take for a 1st degree burn to heal?
Many patients are interested in the question of how long it takes for a first-degree burn to heal. To answer this question, it is necessary to determine the type of damage (thermal, chemical, radiation, electrical), its location and volume, the age of the victim and the individual characteristics of his body.
Mild burn injuries are superficial, so they heal very quickly. As a rule, recovery takes from 3 to 7 days. To improve and speed up the healing process, first aid and proper care of the wound surface are very important. The wound should be treated with an antiseptic and lubricated with anti-burn ointment so that it does not get wet and does not fester.
Diagnostics 1st degree burns
Mild burn injuries are characterized by sharp hyperemia, swelling and painful sensations. Diagnosis of a first-degree burn is based on signs of superficial damage to the epidermis. When examining the wound, its redness and slight swelling over healthy tissues are immediately visible.
It is easy to establish the fact of a burn, but it is more difficult to determine its area and depth. For this, the rule of nines is used: head 9%, upper limb 9%, front of the body 18%, lower limb 18%. The palm rule can also be used, based on the calculation that the palm size is 1% of the total body area.
In the diagnostic process, it is very important to establish the presence of shock in the victim. To do this, the burn area, its depth, blood pressure level, signs of cardiac or respiratory failure and other disorders are assessed. Local burn changes include: primary anatomical and functional disorders, reactive inflammatory processes. The more severe the injury, the more pronounced the morphological changes.
Tests
During the burn diagnosis process, the victim is prescribed various tests that help assess his condition. First of all, the doctor collects anamnesis, determines the cause of the injury, its area and depth.
The patient is prescribed a urine test, which can establish myo or hemoglobinuria. A blood test is necessary to determine the level of albumin (in case of a burn, it is elevated), a study of the gas composition of the blood to identify respiratory disorders and leukocytosis. Based on the results of laboratory tests, the doctor makes a therapy plan or gives the victim the necessary treatment recommendations.
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Instrumental diagnostics
Burn injuries of internal organs require special attention. To determine their severity and localization, instrumental diagnostics are used. So, with a burn of the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract, even a mild degree, it is very important to exclude the development of pathological complications.
For this purpose, the patient undergoes fluoroscopy of the esophagus with water-soluble contrast. It allows diagnosing perforations and esophageal-respiratory fistulas. Endoscopic examinations are also possible, but only for 1-2 degree burns. Ultrasound and general radiography of the gastrointestinal tract and chest are necessary to detect pericarditis or pleurisy.
What do need to examine?
How to examine?
Differential diagnosis
As a rule, minor burn injuries do not require differential diagnostics. Distinction is necessary to determine the type of injury (thermal, chemical, etc.) if the patient cannot independently describe the injury.
Differential diagnostics is performed in case of serious burn wounds, when contact with the victim is difficult or the nature of the injury does not allow to determine its origin, and is accompanied by violations of the integrity of the skin. In this case, the burn is compared with allergic dermatitis, local acute surgical infections of soft tissues (bedsores, erysipelas), diabetic foot, Lyell's syndrome, traumatic endotoxicosis.
Differential studies are performed in case of chemical burns when the reagent has got inside. The nature of the damage is assessed by the action of aggressive substances: alkalis cause deep necrosis, acids - superficial or dry coagulation necrosis. Diagnostics are performed using radiography, esophagogastroscopy and other instrumental methods. If necessary, a biopsy can be performed to differentiate from esophageal tumors.
Who to contact?
Treatment 1st degree burns
As a rule, treatment of a first-degree burn does not require medical assistance and is carried out independently at home. Symptomatic therapy is aimed at minimizing pain and eliminating the inflammatory reaction. For pain relief, both local (ointments, gels, aerosols) and tablet preparations with NSAIDs are used. Antibacterial agents are indicated to prevent infection. It is also necessary to ensure regular skin hydration, as this promotes rapid healing.
During treatment, the following is strictly contraindicated:
- Treat the damage with alcohol-containing substances.
- Do not pierce or cut off any blisters that form, as there is a risk of infection.
- Tear off any clothing stuck to the burn and touch the wound with your hands.
- Lubricate the skin with a solution of potassium permanganate, brilliant green, various oils or fat.
Complete tissue restoration takes from 3 to 5 days. If the regeneration process has not started during this period or the burn injury covers an area of more than 30% of the body, then you should consult a doctor.
First aid for 1st degree burns
First aid for a 1st degree burn is aimed at eliminating the factor that caused the pathological condition. Thus, with the most common thermal injury, it is necessary to eliminate the agent and cool the wound area. This will stop further spread of burn changes and speed up the healing process. But this method can only be used if the integrity of the epidermis is preserved. For cooling, it is recommended to use running water for 15-20 minutes.
Similar first aid is also indicated for sunburns, most of which are mild. The victim should be taken into the shade and the skin should be cooled with running water or a cold compress. If the pain is severe, a painkiller can be given. Any anti-burn agent containing substances with an analgesic and cooling effect should be applied to the skin.
The same treatment regimen is indicated for first-degree electrical injuries. In this case, special care should be taken when removing the victim from the effects of the current. First aid for chemical burns differs from those described above. This is due to the fact that when interacting with water, some agents can increase their effect, causing even greater damage.
Medicines
Modern methods of treating mild burns involve choosing a medication depending on the phase of the wound process. Therapy for first-degree burns consists of the following stages:
- Cooling and treatment of the wound - at this stage, various antiseptic and hypertonic solutions, foam preparations in aerosols are widely used. They clean the wound from possible contamination and effectively cool, reducing pain.
- Vokadin is an antiseptic (ointment, solution) with antiviral and bactericidal properties. The active ingredient is povidone-iodine. It is used for infected skin lesions, for antiseptic treatment of wound surfaces, in surgical and dental practice. It is contraindicated for use in burn injuries in children under 6 years of age and in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the product. The drug can be used both diluted and pure, for washing and applying bandages. Side effects are extremely rare and manifest themselves in the form of local allergic reactions.
- Dimexide is a local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory agent. It is prescribed for inflammatory and traumatic lesions, abscesses, wounds. The solution is used to wash the wound surface or as a compress-bandage. The agent is contraindicated for patients under 12 years of age, with severe cardiovascular insufficiency, stroke, during pregnancy and lactation, comatose states. Dimexide is well tolerated, but in some patients it can cause erythema, dermatitis, itching.
- Dioksizol-Darnitsa is a combined medicinal product for local use. It has antibacterial and local anesthetic properties. Stops wound inflammation, accelerates reparation processes. The main indication for use is the treatment of soft tissue wounds of various localizations and origins. The solution is used to treat burn injuries, as dressings and compresses.
- Miramistin is an antiseptic with a hydrophobic effect on the cytoplasmic membranes of microorganisms. Increases the permeability of cell walls and destroys them. It is active against gram-positive, gram-negative and other harmful microorganisms. It is used to treat infected wounds in the first stage of the wound process, as well as frostbite, superficial burns. It is widely used in dermatology, venereology, urology, surgery and dentistry. The drug is available in the form of a solution and ointment. The main contraindication is intolerance to the active components of the drug.
- Betadine is an antimicrobial, antiseptic agent with the active substance - a complex compound of iodine with polyvinylpyrrolidone. It is used to prevent wound infections, in surgery, transplantology, traumatology, ophthalmology and gynecology. In case of burns, it is used to treat the skin and mucous membranes. The solution is used both in diluted and concentrated form. It can cause allergic reactions (itching, redness, dermatitis), which disappear on their own after discontinuing the drug.
- Pain relief – since minor burns are characterized by superficial tissue damage, it is better to use topical agents, i.e. ointments and aerosols, to minimize discomfort. At the same time, aerosol preparations have a number of advantages over other forms. They are painlessly applied to the wound, treat a large area of damage at a time and allow the skin to breathe, accelerating its recovery.
- Olazol is an aerosol containing sea buckthorn oil, chloramphenicol, boric acid and anesthesin. It has an anesthetic and antibacterial effect, reduces exudation, accelerates the restoration of damaged tissues. It is used for burns of varying severity and localization, trophic ulcers, microbial eczema, dermatitis.
- Livian is an aerosol for external use. It has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and local anesthetic properties. The main contraindication to its use is intolerance to the components. Side effects are manifested in the form of allergic reactions. To achieve a therapeutic effect, the medicine must be sprayed onto damaged tissues once a day.
- Panthenol is a medicine with the active ingredient dexpanthenol. It is used to accelerate the healing of skin and mucous membranes. It helps with abrasions, burns of various etiologies, aseptic postoperative wounds and other injuries. The spray is applied to the skin 1-2 times a day, the duration of treatment depends on the degree of injury and the severity of painful sensations.
- Prevention of wound infection – is carried out if blisters with liquid appear on the skin. Their traumatization can lead to the development of infection. To prevent the pathological condition, the following medications are used:
- Baktosin is an antiseptic solution for external use. Its active ingredients are chlorhexidine gluconate and cetrimide. They combine with the skin and mucous membranes, providing low subcutaneous absorption and prolonged action. It is used to treat minor burns, small wounds, abrasions, microcracks, insect bites. The main contraindication is intolerance to the active components. Side effects and overdose symptoms manifest themselves in the form of skin allergic reactions.
- Chlorhexidine Bigluconate is a local antiseptic with bactericidal properties. Its mechanism of action is based on changing the properties of the microorganism's cell membrane. The medicine destroys pathogenic bacteria and accelerates the regeneration process. With prolonged use, it can cause dryness, itching, photosensitivity. It is used with caution in pediatrics. The main contraindication is intolerance to active substances, dermatitis, disinfection during surgical interventions.
- Levomekol is a combination product with an antibiotic (chloramphenicol) and an immunostimulant (methyluracil). It is effective against most harmful microorganisms. The ointment is used for burns, purulent-inflammatory lesions, trophic ulcers and furuncles. The product is applied to damaged skin or under a sterile bandage. Side effects are manifested in the form of allergic reactions.
- Normalization of local homeostasis – at this stage, necrotic areas of the skin are rejected, i.e., the epidermis peels off and new healthy skin grows. The following products are recommended to speed up the regeneration process:
- Aekol is a combined vitamin product for external use used for wound healing. It has metabolic and anti-burn properties. Its regenerative effect is based on the pharmacological properties of vitamins A and E, menadione and beta-carotene. The drug has an oil form and is available as a solution. The main contraindication is intolerance to the vitamin complex, side effects are manifested as local allergic reactions and diarrhea.
- Curiosin is a combination drug that includes zinc and hyaluronic acid. The latter substance maintains the elasticity and turgor of the epidermis. When its concentration decreases, infected wounds, various pathological processes in the skin and trophic ulcers are formed. Zinc has an antiseptic effect and accelerates healing. The drug is available in two forms: gel and solution. Before applying the product to the wound, it must be treated with hydrogen peroxide. The drug is used 1-2 times a day. Possible side effects include burning and a feeling of tightness of the skin. These effects go away on their own and do not require discontinuing the drug.
Step-by-step medical care using effective medications helps reduce the risk of various complications and speed up the wound healing process.
What to treat a first degree burn with?
Skin damage caused by high temperatures is a burn. You can get injured by a hot object, an aggressive substance, boiling water, hot oil, and many other things. Minor injuries are referred to as first-degree burns. They do not require medical treatment, since the epidermis is injured superficially. Various topical preparations are used to speed up healing. Let's consider what to apply to a first-degree burn depending on its type:
- Thermal – Panthenol, Levomekol, Eplan, Actovegin, Rescuer.
- Chemical – Bepanten, Rescuer, Levomekol, Solcoseryl.
- Sunny - Argosulfan, Eplan, Rescuer, Panthenol.
- Ointments to speed up healing – Panthenol, Rescuer, Ebermin, Actovegin.
Regardless of the cause of the burn injury and its location, the following local remedies can be used for treatment: Levosin (anti-inflammatory, wound healing, anesthetic agent), Luan (pain reliever and accelerates the regeneration process), Streptocide ointment (effective antiseptic), Titriol (pain relieving antiseptic).
Vitamins
To restore the skin after a burn, the body needs vitamins and other microelements that activate regeneration processes. For these purposes, preparations are used that contain various vitamins, let's consider them:
- Radevit is an anti-burn ointment that contains substances that improve tissue regeneration processes. Contains vitamins A, E and D. Stimulates tissue metabolism, accelerates the healing process. Prevents dry skin and infection of burn wounds.
- Aekol is a combined vitamin preparation. It is used to treat burns of varying severity. Its mechanism of action is based on the pharmacological properties of vitamin A, E, beta-carotene and vitamin K. Retinol regulates cellular metabolism, promotes tissue rejuvenation, improves cellular immunity. Beta-carotene increases resistance to infections, participates in regeneration processes, and menadione normalizes blood clotting.
- Panthenol is one of the most popular anti-burn medications. Contains dexpanthenol and B vitamins. Improves tissue regeneration, has an anti-inflammatory effect. Effective in the treatment of burns of any type and stage, both in children and adults.
- Amprovizol is an aerosol product with a combined composition. Contains vitamin D, propolis, menthol, anesthesin. It has an analgesic, antiseptic, cooling and anti-inflammatory effect.
In addition to the above-described drugs, you can additionally take vitamins C and E to speed up the healing of burn injuries and improve the general condition of the body. Vitamin C is necessary for the formation of collagen and the healing of burned epidermis. Vitamin E can be used both internally and externally in the form of an ointment. This substance accelerates tissue restoration and prevents dry skin.
Physiotherapy treatment
Burns of any degree require a comprehensive approach. Physiotherapy is used to reduce pain, reduce inflammation and speed up healing processes. Physiotherapy is practically not used for burn injuries of 1-2 degrees, since the damage is superficial. It is used for more serious and deep wounds. Let's consider the main physiotherapy procedures used for burns:
- Transcranial electrical stimulation is used for pain relief. This is a non-invasive method that involves the effect of currents of a certain frequency on the brain.
- At the stage of scab formation, the victim is prescribed procedures with the effect of blue and red light on the skin using the Geska device. The duration of the procedure is 20-30 minutes, 2-3 sessions are carried out per day. The course of treatment is 14-20 days.
- During the recovery period (formation of granulation and epithelialization), electrical stimulation, franklinization, UV therapy, magnetic and laser therapy are used.
- At the stage of keloid scar formation, the patient is prescribed electrophoresis using the enzymes lidase and collalysin, paraffin applications and ultrasound phonophoresis on scar tissue.
The surgeon determines the need for physiotherapy. The physiotherapist selects the procedures necessary for a speedy recovery and determines the course of their application.
Folk remedies
Since only the superficial layer of the epithelium is damaged in mild burn injuries, the treatment of such wounds is not particularly difficult. Traditional treatment is popular with many patients. Alternative medicine offers the following methods of treating skin lesions:
- Brew strong green and black tea. Cool the drinks to room temperature, mix and strain them. Make a compress from the tea liquid and apply it to the wound until it dries. Repeat the procedure if necessary.
- Mix 25 g of starch with 250 ml of warm water. The resulting solution is used for compresses or under a sterile bandage.
- Soak a gauze pad or bandage in sea buckthorn oil and apply to the wound. This will speed up the regeneration process and reduce pain.
- Take 1-2 tubers of raw potatoes and grate them. Apply the resulting raw material to the burn site every 3-5 minutes. This will prevent the formation of blisters and relieve swelling.
- Mix 25 g of beeswax and 100 ml of sunflower oil until a uniform consistency is obtained. The resulting ointment should be applied to the skin 3-4 times a day until the wound is completely healed.
All the above-described folk medicine recipes are acceptable only for minor injuries. More serious injuries require professional medical care.
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Herbal treatment
Another alternative medicine option is herbal treatment. Properly selected herbal components not only speed up healing, but also improve local tissue immunity.
Herbal recipes for 1st degree burns:
- Pour 25-50 g of crushed oak bark with 500 ml of water and simmer over low heat for 20-30 minutes. Cool the finished decoction and strain. The product is used for external use, that is, for compresses and washing wounds.
- Place 25 g of aspen bark in an enamel bowl with a lid and pour 500 ml of boiling water. The decoction must be boiled in a water bath for 30 minutes and filtered well. The remedy is taken internally, diluting 100 ml of decoction with 50 ml of warm water. External use for compresses and bandages is also possible.
- To reduce pain and reduce inflammation, use apples. The fruit is rich in tannins. Grate an apple with the peel on a fine grater and apply to the wound for 10-15 minutes.
- Grind fresh lingonberries and squeeze out the juice. Soak a napkin or bandage in the juice and apply to the wound. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times.
- Grind the berries of the black chokeberry (rowan) and squeeze out the juice. Take the herbal liquid ½ cup per day for 14 days. The juice can be used for compresses and rinsing.
Before using the above recipes, you should consult with your doctor. This is due to the risk of developing allergic reactions, which will complicate the treatment process.
Homeopathy
Alternative medicine or homeopathy also offers preparations for the treatment of minor burn injuries of various etiologies. Let's consider them:
- Urtica urens – suitable for sunburn. Urtica urens is used both internally and externally. For minor injuries, the drug is taken every 15 minutes 5-6 times. For severe wounds, you can make compresses from the tincture of the medicine (20 drops per ½ glass of water).
- Cantharis – effective for painful lesions with blisters. Cantharis can be used to treat children. The drug is taken every 15 minutes 5-6 times.
- Calendula is a homeopathic remedy used for burns with burst blisters, i.e. with a risk of infection. It is suitable for both internal and external use. Calendula is taken 3 times a day for 3 days.
- Causticum – used for burns that remain painful after healing. Causticum is taken 3 times a day for 2-3 days.
To relieve painful shock and panic, take Aconitum, for burning pain and severe swelling - Apis, and for severe throbbing pain, Belladonna is suitable. The dosage of all the above-described medications is selected by a homeopath, individually for each patient.
Prevention
Prevention of burn injuries is based on eliminating the factors that can cause them. Prevention of household burns (thermal, chemical, electrical) should be known to everyone. Since this type of injury is the most common. Burns occur when basic safety rules are not followed.
Prevention is based on these recommendations:
- Do not use electrical appliances that are faulty or have damaged insulation.
- Do not attempt to repair wiring or electrical appliances yourself without the appropriate knowledge and skills.
- Do not leave children unattended, especially if there are hot objects or anything that could cause injury (matches, a switched-on iron, a hot kettle, aggressive liquids) in their field of vision.
- Avoid smoking in bed as it is a very common cause of fires.
- If possible, keep a fire extinguisher at home and conduct an educational talk with your children about burn safety.
Another common type of damage, especially in hot weather, is sunburn. Avoid being in the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as this is the time when there is a risk of getting a burn. On particularly hot days, try to cover your skin with light, dark-colored clothing. Before going outside, use sunscreen with an appropriate protection factor (determined by your skin phototype). Following these simple recommendations will reduce the risk of skin injury to a minimum.
Forecast
A first-degree burn has the most positive prognosis. The injury causes superficial damage that quickly heals within a few days. But do not forget about the use of first aid, which will relieve pain, reduce the risk of all sorts of consequences and complications, and also speed up the healing process.
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