Internal Medicine in Lagos
Burns and Scalds
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a internal medicine specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Burns and Scalds
- Red, painful skin in a shallow burn
- Blisters in a deeper partial-thickness burn
- White, brown or black, leathery skin that may not hurt in a deep burn
- Swelling
- In a burn from smoke or fire: coughing, a hoarse voice or soot around the mouth and nose
Burns from fire, hot oil, kerosene or electricity, and scalds from hot water or drinks, are common injuries at home, especially for young children in the kitchen. The right first aid in the first minutes makes a real difference to healing: cooling the burn under cool running water for twenty minutes, then covering it loosely. Butter, toothpaste, raw egg, palm oil and other home remedies trap heat and cause infection. Small, shallow burns heal at home; large, deep or electrical burns, and burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals or joints, need hospital care.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Red, painful skin in a shallow burn
- Blisters in a deeper partial-thickness burn
- White, brown or black, leathery skin that may not hurt in a deep burn
- Swelling
- In a burn from smoke or fire: coughing, a hoarse voice or soot around the mouth and nose
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital emergency department now for burns larger than the person's palm, any deep burn, burns to the face, hands, feet, genitals or across joints, electrical or chemical burns, any burn in a baby, an older person or someone pregnant, or a burn with breathing problems or smoke inhalation. See a doctor for any burn that blisters, is not healing after two weeks, or shows signs of infection such as pus, spreading redness or fever.
Treatment options
- Cooling under cool, not icy, running water for twenty minutes
- Removing jewellery and clothing near the burn unless it is stuck
- Covering loosely with cling film or a clean, non-fluffy dressing
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain
- Specialist burns dressings, and skin grafts for deep burns, in hospital
Common Questions
Should I put toothpaste, butter or oil on a burn?
No. They hold the heat in, make the burn deeper and can cause infection. Cool running water is the right first aid.
Should I burst a blister?
No. The blister protects the skin underneath as it heals. Leave it intact and covered.
Is it too late to cool a burn after some time?
Cooling helps for up to three hours after the burn. Start as soon as you can, for twenty minutes.
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