Treatment Options for 2nd Degree Burns: What You Need to Know

A 2nd degree burn is a type of burn that affects both the outer layer (epidermis) and the layer beneath it (dermis) of the skin. It is usually caused by exposure to heat, flames, or chemicals and can be extremely painful.

When treating a 2nd degree burn, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage and to promote healing. The first step is to cool the affected area with cold water. This helps to reduce pain and inflammation and prevent the burn from spreading.

After cooling the burn, it is important to clean the area thoroughly. This helps to prevent infection and promote healing. To clean the area, use mild soap and water and avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

Once the area is clean, apply a sterile dressing to the burn. This helps to protect the affected area from further damage and promotes healing. It is important to change the dressing regularly and to keep the area clean and dry.

If the burn is severe or covers a large area of the body, seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, a 2nd degree burn can cause complications such as infection, scarring, or nerve damage. Proper treatment and care can help to minimize these risks and promote a full recovery.

Immediate First Aid for Second-Degree Burns

Step 1: Cool it down

Immediately after a second-degree burn, run cool (not cold) water over the burned area for at least 10-15 minutes. This can help soothe the pain and reduce swelling. But avoid using ice or very cold water as it can cause further tissue damage.

Americans see their primary care doctors less often than they did a decade ago. Adults under 65 made nearly 25% fewer visits to primary care providers in 2016 than they did in 2018, according to National Public Radio. In the same time period, the number of adults who went at least a year without visiting a primary care provider increased from 38% to 46%.

Step 2: Cover it up

After cooling the burn, cover it with a sterile, nonstick bandage or gauze to prevent infection. Avoid using any fluffy material that can stick to the wound as it can intensify the pain when removed.

Step 3: Provide pain relief

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve the pain and swelling associated with second-degree burns. However, never give aspirin to children under 19 years old, as it may cause a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.

Step 4: Keep it elevated

Keeping the burned body part elevated above the heart can help reduce pain and swelling. This is especially effective in burns on the hands.

Step 5: Seek medical attention

If the burn is larger than three inches in diameter or affects sensitive areas like face, hands, or feet, seek medical attention immediately. Also, if you notice signs of infection such as redness, pus, or swelling, talk to your doctor.

Conclusion

Second-degree burns can cause serious damage to the skin. Proper first aid measures can help reduce pain, swelling, and the risk of infection. However, always seek medical attention if the burn is severe or if the symptoms worsen over time.

Cool the Burn and Protect It

Cool the Burn

The first step in treating a second-degree burn is to cool the affected area down. You can do this by holding the burned skin under cool running water for at least 10 minutes. Do not use ice, as this can further damage the skin. If you do not have access to running water, you can try soaking the burned area in cool water or using a cool, wet compress.

Protect the Burn

After cooling the burn, you should protect the affected area from further damage. Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage or gauze. This will help prevent infection and keep the area moist, which can aid in the healing process. Avoid using cotton balls or anything else that may stick to the burn. If the burn is on a hand or foot, it may be helpful to elevate the affected limb to reduce swelling.

If the burn is on a large area of the body, or if it is located on the face, hands, feet, or genitals, seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, if the burn is deep, appears to be infected, or if you develop a fever, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

• Cool the burn under cool running water for at least 10 minutes.
• Do not use ice.
• Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage or gauze.
• Avoid using cotton balls or anything else that may stick to the burn.
• If the burn is on a large area of the body, seek medical attention immediately.

Use Creams and Ointments

Hydrogel Dressings

Hydrogel dressings are a popular treatment for second-degree burns. These dressings can be applied directly to the wound and work by keeping the burn moist and cool, which helps to reduce pain and promote healing. Hydrogel dressings can be very effective, but they must be used in combination with other treatments to be most effective.

Antibiotic Creams

If your burn has become infected or is at risk of becoming infected, your doctor may recommend using an antibiotic cream. These creams are applied directly to the wound and can help to kill bacteria and prevent infection. Antibiotic creams can also help to reduce pain and speed up the healing process.

Mild Steroids

Mild steroids can be used to reduce inflammation and pain associated with second-degree burns. These creams are applied directly to the wound and can help to reduce redness and swelling. It is important to use these creams only as directed by your doctor, as overuse can cause side effects.

Moisturizing Creams

Moisturizing creams can be very helpful in preventing scarring and promoting the healing of second-degree burns. These creams should be applied regularly to the wound, and can help to keep the skin soft and supple. They can also help to reduce itching and irritation associated with healing burns.

• Hydrogel dressings can be effective in reducing pain and promoting healing.
• Antibiotic creams can help to prevent infection and speed up healing.
• Mild steroids can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Moisturizing creams can help to prevent scarring and keep the skin soft and supple.

Treat Pain and Swelling

Over-the-counter pain relief:

If you are experiencing pain from a second-degree burn, over-the-counter pain relief such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can be taken as directed to help manage discomfort. However, avoid using aspirin, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Cool compresses:

Using cool compresses on the burned area can help reduce pain and swelling. You can soak a clean cloth or towel in cool water and wring it out before applying it to the affected area. Avoid using ice or very cold water as it can further damage the skin.

Elevate the affected area:

If the second-degree burn is on an arm or leg, elevating it above the heart can help reduce swelling. This can be done by propping the affected limb up with pillows or sitting in a reclined position.

Avoid tight clothing or accessories:

Tight clothing or accessories can rub against the burned area, causing further irritation and discomfort. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing and avoid wearing anything that puts pressure on the affected area.

Stay hydrated:

Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your body hydrated and promote healing. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate the body and increase pain.

• Remember to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for treating the burn, including any medication or dressing changes.
• If you experience increasing pain, redness, or swelling, seek medical attention immediately.

Monitor Your Healing Progress

Observation and Documentation

Observing your burn wound is crucial to monitor how well it’s healing and to prevent further complications. Create a chart to document the changes in your wound. Write down the date, location, size, color, and any other significant details about your wound. Take note of any unusual signs such as pus, foul odor, or increased pain or redness, as they can indicate an infection.

If you notice any signs of infection or if your wound is not healing properly, seek medical attention immediately. Let your doctor or nurse know any changes in the wound so they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Careful Management

To ensure a quicker and safer healing process, it is essential to take good care of the wound. Follow your doctor or nurse’s instructions, and keep the wound clean and dry. Avoid wearing tight clothing or applying any products that may irritate the wound.

Continue to dress and change the wound bandages regularly, and make sure they are always clean and snug. This will help to prevent further injuries and avoid infections from bacterial contamination.

Healthy Diet and Exercise

Eating healthily and exercising regularly can assist in the healing process and improve immune system function. Include lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your balanced diet and avoid smoking and alcohol consumption as they delay the healing process. Engage in gentle physical activity daily to stimulate blood circulation and improve the oxygen supply to the wound area.

Conclusion

Healing from a second-degree burn can be a long and painful process. However, closely monitoring the wound, managing it carefully, and living a healthy lifestyle can help speed up the healing process and promote a faster recovery. If you notice any signs of infection or your wound does not appear to be healing, seek medical attention right away.

Prevent and Treat Infection

Keep the Wound Clean

One of the most important steps in preventing infection in a second-degree burn is keeping the wound clean. This can be done by gently washing the area with mild soap and water once or twice a day. Be sure to use a clean towel to pat the area dry afterwards. If the burn is on a hand or foot, soak the area in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes a couple of times a day. Be sure to cover the wound with a sterile dressing to keep it clean in between washings.

Protect the Wound

The next step in preventing infection is to protect the wound from further damage. If the burn is on an area that will come into contact with clothing or other surfaces, cover it with a sterile non-adhesive dressing. If the burn is on a hand or foot, you can also use a clean, dry, non-stick dressing to protect it from friction while you go about your day. Avoid touching the wound with your bare hands as much as possible, and only apply creams or ointments as directed by your doctor.

Consider Antibiotics

If the burn is more severe or you are at a greater risk of infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics as a preventative measure. These can be taken orally or applied topically to the wound. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, and finish the entire course of antibiotics even if you start feeling better before it’s over.

• Important Note: If the wound becomes red, swollen, or starts oozing pus, contact your doctor immediately as these are signs of infection.

Common signs of infection in a burn wound:
Redness and swelling around the wound
Increased pain or tenderness at the site
Oozing of yellow or green pus
Fever or chills

Scarring and Recovery

Scarring

Second degree burns can cause scarring, which can be permanent in more severe cases. The scar tissue may be a different color than the surrounding skin and can be raised or indented. Keloids, which are thick, raised scars, can also develop in some cases.

It is important to keep the burn clean and moisturized during the healing process to reduce scarring. Once the burn has healed, applying scar creams or silicone sheets may also help reduce the appearance of scars.

Recovery

The time it takes for a second degree burn to heal varies depending on the size and severity of the burn. In general, it takes about two to three weeks for a second degree burn to heal. During this time, it is important to keep the burn clean and dry and to avoid exposing it to sunlight.

Pain management is also important during the recovery process. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Prescription pain medications may be needed for more severe burns.

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to check for any signs of infection or other complications.