Skin Burns
Skin burns cause tissue damage and cell death and can be caused by heat, electricity, UV radiation, or chemicals. There are a number of associated dangers:
- dehydration
- electrolyte imbalnce
- circulatory shock
- loss of body fluids
- invasion by bacteria
First Degree Burns
- epidermis is damaged
- skin is red & swollen (no blister)
- skin may become dry & peel
- signs & symptoms disappear as layers are shed and replaced
- typically heal within 3-6 days
Second Degree Burns
- epidermis & upper dermis are damaged
- skin is red, blisters are present
- heals within 2-3 weeks, but can take longer
- in severe cases, skin grafts are necessary
- seek emergency treatment if on: face, hands, buttocks, groin or feet
Third Degree Burns
- destroys entire cutaneous, and possibly subcutaneous
- requires skin grafts
- may extend into bloodstream, major organs & bones
- can lead to death
- damage is so extensive, pain may not be felt (due to destruction of nerve endings in dermal layer)