Many people instinctively reach for ice when burned, believing it will soothe pain and prevent damage. This common misconception, however, can worsen the injury. Proper immediate burn care is important to promote healing and prevent complications.
The Problem with Ice
Applying ice directly to a burn can cause tissue damage. Extreme cold constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the injured area. This impedes healing and can lead to frostnip or frostbite.
Ice can also numb the burn, masking the injury’s true extent and preventing awareness of excessive cold. This is dangerous for larger burns or vulnerable individuals like young children and the elderly, increasing hypothermia risk. Greasy substances like butter or oil should also be avoided, as they trap heat and can introduce bacteria, increasing infection risk.
Immediate Burn Care
The correct first aid for minor to moderate burns involves cooling the affected area with cool, not cold, running water. This should be done for at least 20 minutes as soon as possible after the injury. Cooling the burn helps dissipate thermal energy, stabilize blood vessels, and reduce inflammatory responses, which can lessen the depth of the burn.
After cooling, gently clean the burn with mild soap and water. Cover the burn loosely with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or clean cloth to protect it from infection and trauma. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to manage discomfort.
When to Get Professional Help
While many minor burns can be treated at home, certain situations require immediate medical attention. Seek professional help for any burn larger than the injured person’s hand or causing white, charred, or leathery skin, indicating a deep burn. Burns located on the face, neck, hands, feet, genitals, or over major joints also warrant medical evaluation, regardless of their size.
Additional reasons to seek medical attention include signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, fever, or oozing from the wound. All chemical and electrical burns should be assessed by a healthcare professional, as these can have unique complications. Infants, young children, and older adults should also be seen by a doctor even for seemingly minor burns due to their increased vulnerability.