Second-degree burns affect the topmost layer of the skin, and the one directly under it. The burn site appears red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful. Most cases of second-degree burns are due to scald injuries, direct flames, or the skin getting in contact with a hot item. Second-degree burns that affect less than 10% of the skinâs surface can be treated in an outpatient setting.
Early burn management is crucial to preventing complications from arising and to hasten recovery. To end the pain and prevent the burn from becoming more severe, rinse the affected area with cool water for fifteen to thirty minutes or until the pain subsides. Alternatively, you may place arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, or toes in a basin of cool water or apply cool compresses to burned areas.
Avoid using ice or iced water as this can aggravate the tissue damage. You should remove jewelry or clothing which can tighten as the swelling progresses because these can impede blood circulation distally. If the burn is on a leg or an arm, keep the limb elevated for the first 24 to 48 hours to prevent swelling. Also remember to continue moving the affected limb normally to keep contractures at bay.
Never put sprays or butter on burns as these trap the heat inside the burn. Doctors usually prescribe topical creams to keep infection at bay and to aid in healing. One of the frequently given topical medications is silver sulfadiazine and this medication is effective against a broad range of bacteria Silver sulfadiazine is safe to use in general when applied as instructed. Typically, it is put on only once or twice daily.
Needless to say, like with other drugs, the probability of it interacting with other medicines and therapies and side effects is not totally removed. This underlines the necessity of seeking medical evaluation prior to beginning treatment, and to follow the treatment plan diligently. The cream should be applied only after the affected area has been cleansed with soapy water.
Never touch the burn with your hands or anything dirty because open blisters can get infected easily. Always wear a sterile, disposable glove when you apply silver sulfadiazine to prevent infection. If the burned skin or blisters have broken open or are likely to become dirty to be irritated by clothing, applying bandage may be necessary.