Second-degree burn

A burn is an injury to the skin due to contact or exposure to a hazardous agent, such as heat, cold, electricity, radiation from the sun or certain chemicals. The degree of a burn is determined by its location in the body and the depth that reaches the skin. Symptoms may include blisters burns, pain, swelling, white, red or charred skin. If airway burns have been sustained, there may be burns in the head, face, neck, eyebrows or nose hair, burnt mouth and lips, coughing, shortness of breath, dark mucus with black spots, voice changes, etc. The diagnosis is made through a detailed medical history and complete physical examination. Treatment will depend on what kind of burn we have. Minor burns require a good pain control with cooling of the area (water or at room temperature) and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, ensure the tetanus vaccination is current, appropriate wound care and monitor any signs of infection. As for major burns, hospital treatment is necessary, ensuring the maintenance of supportive measures (control of vital signs, airway remains clear, proper hydration), pain control, gastric protection, ensuring the tetanus vaccination is current and carrying out specific measures or local treatment, according to the assessment of the specialist.