A burn is the result of severe damage to skin tissue caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, or radiation. Some burns—such as electrical burns— can cause damage beneath the skin that is not visible to the eye.
Most topical burns are minor and frequently occur at home, the workplace or in the sun. The best course of action to treat a burn often depends on what caused it and the severity of the symptoms.
Burns typically fall into one of three categories, severity increasing with each category:
First-degree
Second-degree
Third-degree
Common symptoms of burns include:
Blistering, accompanies by the thickening of the skin
Pain
Peeling skin
Red, irritated skin
Swelling at the contact site
Tenderness
Shock, including pale, clammy skin
Yellowing or whitening of the skin
Charring of the skin
Severe burn symptoms include:
Rapid pulse
Difficulty breathing
Hives
Swollen lips, throat or tongue
Nausea or diarrhea
Dizziness
Anaphylaxis
Minor burns can often be treated by applying aloe vera to reduce redness and relieve pain. Based on the circumstances of your burn, our doctors at the WellNow Urgent Care clinic near you may prescribe an antibiotic cream or recommend another course of treatment for your injury. Feel free to contact us anytime for more information about burns and burn treatment.
If you are experiencing any of the burn symptoms listed below, check in online or walk into a WellNow Urgent Care location nearest you.
This medical information has been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Robert Birenbaum, Chief Medical Officer for WellNow Urgent Care.
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