Burn Treatment in Orlando, FL
Almost all burns are painful, but not all are emergencies. Therefore, it is important to know when and where to seek professional burn treatment. These common injuries can occur when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, heat, friction, electricity, or certain chemicals.
To help you determine the severity of a burn, the experienced medical team at Optimum Direct Care in Orlando, Florida, offers the following information:
First-Degree Burns
The least severe type of burn, a first-degree burn affects only the thin, outermost layer of skin (epidermis), causing it to become reddened, swollen, and tender. First-degree burns often occur after overexposure to the sun.
Most first-degree burns heal within approximately one week and can be treated at home in the meantime. To improve comfort, it can be helpful to apply cool compresses or aloe vera gel to the affected skin and to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, if necessary. As the skin heals, it may flake, peel, or slightly change color.
Second-Degree Burns
More serious than a first-degree burn, a second-degree burn involves damage that extends through the epidermis and into the thick, inner layer of skin (dermis). In addition to redness and swelling, the symptoms of a second-degree burn may include blistering and moderate to severe pain, both of which warrant prompt medical attention.
After evaluating a second-degree burn, a physician can suggest an appropriate treatment plan, which may include pain management techniques and an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection. Complete healing usually occurs within a few weeks.
Third-Degree Burns
The most serious type of burn, a third-degree burn involves damage that penetrates the epidermis and dermis and reaches the subcutaneous tissues (hypodermis). As a result, the full thickness of the skin is damaged, and the underlying fat, nerves, muscles, and bones may be affected as well. The skin may appear blackened and charred or whitened and leathery. In some cases, the injury is extremely painful, but in others, the burn damages nerve endings and causes a numbing effect.
A third-degree burn is a medical emergency that warrants immediate treatment at the closest hospital ER.
Unsure of the Severity of a Burn? Ask a Physician
Sometimes, the extent of the damage caused by a burn is not readily apparent. Also, burns are dynamic injuries, and lingering heat may continue to penetrate and damage the skin and underlying tissues. If you are uncertain about the severity of a burn, you should seek the advice of a physician right away.
If you’re a member of Optimum Direct Care, a direct primary care practice in Orlando, FL, you are welcome to consult with our board-certified family practice physician, Dr. Toni “Muzzi” Muzzonigro, at any time. Whether you need burn treatment or another health care service, Dr. Muzzi is always available to provide the personalized medical attention you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.