What should you do about burns?

Burns, especially the severe ones, can be very dangerous and require prompt attention. Here's what you can do about burns:

1. Immediate Actions:

- Stop the Burning Process:

* Move away from the heat source, flames, or chemicals causing the burn.

* If clothing is on fire, stop, drop, and roll to extinguish it.

- Cool the Burn:

* Run the burn under cool (not cold) water for at least 20 minutes. This helps reduce heat and pain.

* Do not use ice or apply ice directly to the burn, as this can worsen tissue damage.

2. Remove Jewelry or Tight Clothing:

- If possible, remove any jewelry, watches, or tight clothing near the burn before the area swells.

3. Cover the Burn:

- Use a clean cloth or sterile bandage to loosely cover the burn. This helps protect the area from infection and further injury.

- Do not apply lotions, ointments, butter, or toothpaste to the burn, as they may cause infection or complicate medical treatment.

4. Pain Relief:

- For minor burns, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.

- Severe burns may require prescription pain medication. Consult a doctor for appropriate treatment options.

5. Elevate the Burn:

- If the burn is on an arm, leg, or foot, elevate it to reduce swelling.

6. Seek Medical Attention:

- When to see a doctor:

* For any severe burn, including deep burns (those affecting multiple layers of skin) and burns covering large areas of the body.

* Burns to critical areas such as the face, neck, hands, feet, or genitals.

* Burns caused by chemicals or electrical accidents.

* Any burns accompanied by additional symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.

* Burns that show signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, redness, oozing, or a foul smell.

- Aftercare:

* Follow the doctor's instructions for wound care, including bandage changes and any medications prescribed.

* Monitor for signs of infection or complications, and promptly contact the doctor if any concerns arise.

Remember that severe burns are medical emergencies and should be treated by qualified healthcare professionals as soon as possible. If in doubt, always seek medical advice promptly.