Thermal burns are primarily caused by an open flame or contact with a hot object. These can also be caused due to steam or other hot/molten liquid, electrical burns, UV radiation, and harsh chemicals (chemical reactions that produce heat on contact with skin). Thermal injury cases have been widely reported in households, among adults and children alike. These types of burns can range from mild to severe, depending on the overall quantum of damage caused by the different layers of skin – the top layer Dermis, the secondary layer Epidermis and the third layer Hypodermis (subcutaneous tissues). Earlier, Thermal Burns were described as first-degree burns, second-degree burns, and third-degree burns. However, now, these are commonly described as superficial burns, partial thickness burns and full thickness burns.

Every household should have a first aid for the burn patient. For all types of thermal burns, the first thing to do is to move the person away from the heat source or cut off their contact with the heat source. If there are smouldering pieces on the body, it should be removed immediately. Pieces of clothing, if burning or hot, also need to be removed immediately. However, if any piece of clothing is sticking to the skin, then it should be left as is. One can cut around the wound to remove the rest of the clothing. Other items such as jewellery, belt, etc. should also be removed.

Best Handling tips for thermal burns:

The handling approach for thermal burns will depend on the type of thermal burn injury. Described below are some effective handling tips for first-degree, second-degree and third-degree thermal burns.

First-degree or superficial thermal burns:

First-degree thermal burns affect the top layer of the skin, dermis. These can be easily treated at home if the burn area is small. The first step should be to cool down the burn site with cold water. The water should not be freezing or icy cold, as this can cause further damage to the burnt skin. Cooling down the burn site with cold water will prevent further damage to the skin. In case running water is not available, a cold compress can be placed over the burn site.

After this, the burn site should be dried off with a clean cotton towel or cloth. The towel should be gently placed over the burn site and there should not be any rubbing action. Next, the burn site should be covered loosely with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage. If the patient is experiencing pain, over-the-counter pain relievers can be given to provide relief to the patient.

The need for doctor’s intervention will be required if the pain has intensified, the burn site has become infected, the patient has developed fever, or if there is abnormal redness or swelling.

Second-degree or partial thickness thermal burns:

Second-degree thermal burn injuries affect the top layer dermis and some parts of the second layer epidermis. Such burns cause blisters, some of which may break releasing liquid whereas others may remain closed. The burn site should be cooled down with cold water for 15 – 20 minutes. The next steps are the same as described for first-degree thermal burns. Care should be taken not to break the blisters, as it can increase the risk of infection. Second-degree thermal burns can cause shock, which is why the patient should be made to lie down and rest. If they are feeling cold due to shock, they need to be covered with a blanket. Painkillers can be given if the patient is experiencing discomfort due to pain.

Minor second-degree thermal burns can be treated at home. However, if the pain is intense or there is abnormal redness or swelling, you need to consult a doctor immediately. Large-sized second-degree thermal burns will require treatment at the hospital in an outpatient environment.

Third-degree or full thickness thermal burns:

These types of thermal injuries burn through the first, second and third layer of the skin. These can be identified with their white or blackened, charred skin texture. These are best handled by a medical team. Call the hospital or ambulance emergency number if you suspect third-degree thermal burns. Do not put water to cool the burn site, as the third layer of the skin gets exposed in such burns and putting water can cause infection.

Third-degree thermal burns can cause extreme shock and pain. The patient should be administered a painkiller immediately and made to lie down. The patient is likely to feel cold due to the shock, so a blanket can be placed over them to keep them warm, till the emergency medical team arrives. Third-degree thermal burns will require the patient to be admitted in the hospital. Doctors may utilize skin graft techniques to help heal the burn wound. Third-degree burn victims have also shown to experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), in which case, they may require further therapy after their burn wound has healed.

As part of burn management, it is advisable that you consult the doctor for a preliminary assessment for all types of thermal burns. Moreover, it has been revealed in studies that most of these thermal burns are caused due to carelessness or not following the proper safety guidelines. As part of burn awareness, prevention is another area you need to focus on to reduce the risk of thermal burn injuries.