Burns: what to look for and how to treat them

Burns are a common issue and can be caused by various things such as chemicals, heat, and friction.

There are several degrees of burns; first degree burns affect only the epidermal tissue (the top layer of skin) and are easily taken care of at home.  Fortunately, most items for relief are found in every household.  One of the first things to remember is to keep the affected area cold.  Some simple remedies include aloe vera, diluted vinegar, lavender oil, honey, and whole milk.  Apply any one of these to the burn directly or, in the case of the diluted vinegar or whole milk, using a compress.

Do not break any blisters that may appear.  These pockets of fluid cushion the tissue beneath, protecting it from further damage such as infection, and allowing things to heal.  Breaking them could cause more pain and potential infection.

If you receive a burn caused by a chemical of any sort, contact your physician right away, as active ingredients may cause severe problems.

More severe burns should be seen by your physician to prevent things such as infection and scarring.

Warning: This post is not intended to diagnose or cure any diseases. These remedies are intended for use on minor burns only. IMMEDIATELY call for medical help if the burns are severe, cover large areas of skin, or have been caused by exposure to chemicals. Consult your physician if you may be allergic to any of the remedies.