Burns are injuries that can sometimes become infected. An infected burn occurs when bacteria or other microorganisms enter damaged skin, leading to complications. This situation requires prompt attention because infections can extend deeper than the initial wound, potentially causing tissue damage. Proper care is important to prevent these complications and support healing.
Recognizing an Infected Burn
Monitoring a burn for changes in appearance is a primary way to identify a potential infection. The wound’s color or surrounding skin may change, becoming increasingly red, warm, or swollen. This redness can also spread beyond the original burn area or appear as a red streak emanating from the wound.
Increased pain or tenderness at the burn site can signal an infection. The wound might also produce green or foul-smelling discharge or pus. A persistent fever is another sign of a systemic response to infection. If the wound’s thickness appears to increase or it extends deeper into the skin, this suggests a worsening condition.
First Aid for Suspected Infection
If you suspect a burn is infected, immediate first aid steps focus on hygiene and protection. Begin by gently cleaning the burn area with mild soap and cool, clean running water for at least 10 to 20 minutes. Avoid using very cold water or ice, as this can constrict blood vessels and prolong healing. It is important to remove any jewelry or constrictive clothing near the burn, but do not pull off clothing that is stuck to the wound.
After cleaning, cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage or a clean cloth to protect it from dirt and further irritation. Ensure the dressing is loose enough to allow air circulation. Do not break any blisters that may have formed, as they provide a natural barrier against infection. Avoid applying unproven remedies like butter or oils, as these can trap heat or introduce more bacteria, potentially worsening the infection.
When to Seek Professional Help
Knowing when to consult a medical professional for a burn is important. Seek medical attention if you observe worsening signs of infection, such as increasing redness, pain, swelling, warmth, or the presence of pus or a foul odor. A persistent fever or dizziness also indicates a need for professional evaluation.
Large or deep burns require immediate medical assessment. Burns located on sensitive areas like the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints also warrant prompt medical care due to the risk of functional impairment and increased susceptibility to infection. Individuals with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or a compromised immune system, or those who are infants or elderly, should also seek medical advice for even minor burns, as their healing may be prolonged. If a burn is not healing as expected or pain persists despite home care, a healthcare provider should assess the wound.
Medical Care for Infected Burns
When seeking professional medical care for an infected burn, you can expect specific interventions aimed at managing the infection and promoting healing. Healthcare providers will begin with a thorough cleaning of the wound, which may involve debridement, the removal of dead or damaged tissue to facilitate healing and reduce the bacterial load. This process helps expose healthy tissue and allows topical treatments to be more effective.
Depending on the severity and type of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. These can include topical antimicrobial medications applied directly to the wound, or oral antibiotics for more widespread infections. Specialized dressings providing continuous antimicrobial action are often used to cover the wound. For severe or deep burns that are not healing well, medical professionals may also consider skin grafts, where healthy skin from another part of the body is used to cover the wound, aiding in closure and reducing infection risk.