What Are the Treatments for Second Degree Burns?

Burns are categorized based on the amount of tissue affected and how deep the injury goes. A second degree burn is when both the epidermis (top layers of skin) and some of the dermis (deeper layers) are involved in the burn. Second degree burns can be considered minor if they are no larger than 3 inches and are not on the face, hands, feet, buttocks or over major joints. If they are larger than this or on one of the listed areas, the burn should be considered a major burn. Treatment will vary depending on whether it is minor or more serious.

Symptoms

• Second degree burns are very red and have blisters. The skin appears splotchy. The burns may appear wet due to loss of fluid. They are painful and because of this may cause the pulse to increase. The burned skin and the area around it may also have some swelling.

Treating a Minor Second Degree Burn

• A minor second degree burn can be treated at home. The one exception is an electrical burn, even if it fits all other parameters of the minor burn category. Electrical burns should always be treated as major burns. For minor burns, the first course of action should be cooling down the burn. Put the burned area under cold running water for at least five minutes. If it is not possible to put under running water, immerse it in a cold bath or put cold compresses on the affected area. Do not put ice on the burn. After the cooling treatment, cover the burn with a sterile gauze to protect it from too much exposure to air. Take an over-the-counter analgesic for pain.

At-Home Treatments to Avoid

• There are some traditional treatments for second degree burns that should be avoided. The first is to refrain from using ice on the wound because it will damage tissue. Do not put butter, other oils or even burn ointments on the affected tissue because it prevents healing. It is also very important to not break blisters, as they are prone to infection.

Additional Symptoms of Major Second Degree Burns

• Major second degree burns may cause an individual to go into shock (in addition to the burn symptoms already mentioned). Shock happens when blood pressure becomes too low to push blood to the brain and vital organs. The blood pressure becomes dangerously low due to the loss of fluids. Some symptoms of shock are rapid pulse, shallow breathing, fainting, nausea, pale and moist skin, and blue tinge on fingers and lips.

Treatment of Major Second Degree Burns

• All major second degree burns need to have immediate professional medical attention. Therefore the first priority is to figure out how to get the burned individual to a hospital. The best option is to call local emergency services via 911. While attending to the burn before professionals take over, make sure the burned area is raised if possible to avoid swelling. Cover the area with gauze or a loose sheet. Treat for shock by laying the person on the ground, raising their feet about 12 inches and covering them with a blanket to keep them warm.

Medical Intervention

• Medical intervention will begin with replacement fluids via an intravenous line. The doctor will examine the burn. If he believes there will be scarring, he may suggest a skin graft. This means that skin from an uninjured area is transplanted onto the burned area. This is not as common for second degree burns as it is for third degree. Usually for second degree burns the primary course of follow-up treatment is pain management and infection control. If you are unsure of whether the burn needs medical attention, err on the side of caution.