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How to Treat a Painful Burn on the Fingers

When dealing with finger burns, the first thing to determine is the severity. First-degree burns will leave the area red, painful and swollen. Second-degree burns have similar symptoms, but with the addition of blistering. Third-degree burns will leave the flesh charred black or white, and maybe numb. Third-degree burns warrant medical attention.

Things You'll Need

  • Cool water
  • Clean bandage or dressing
  • OTC pain reliever
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Instructions

  1. How to Treat a Painful Burn on the Fingers

    • 1

      Determine the severity (degree) of the burn. Get medical attention for serious third-degree burns.

    • 2

      Gently pour cool water over the fingers, or soak them in cool water. You may also apply a cool, wet cloth.

    • 3

      Apply a dry clean bandage or dressing to the fingers, separately for each finger that is burned.

    • 4

      Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

    • 5

      After the skin is cooled, you may apply some lotion, but only if the burn is not severe.

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