Steam burns are classified as thermal burns or burns that have been caused by a direct source of heat. They usually are first and second degree burns which can be extremely painful. These types of burns are common kitchen and industrial injuries. The size of the affected area and the degree of the burn determines due treatment course.
Burn Degrees
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First Degree. Only the epidermis is involved. There can be a lot of stinging and the skin can appear red.
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Second Degree. This is a very painful burn as the upper part of the dermis is involved and this is where most pain receptors are present. Blisters may be present and the skin can appear raw and very red. It can be further divided into superficial and deep second degree burns.
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Third Degree. This is not as painful as first and second degree burns because of its deeper involvement. Blanching of the tissue may be present the burned area can appear whiter than the rest of the skin. Pain may be present at the borders as first and second degree burns may be present here.
Firs Aid Steam Burns Treatment
Patients need to be taken to the hospital when deep second degree and third degree burns are present. The same goes for first degree burns that cover a large area of the body.
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Remove the patient from the object that caused the burn.
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Determine where the burn area is.
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Place the burned area under cool, not cold running water.
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Cover with a clean cloth or a bandage. Keep the covering secure but not too tight.
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Have the patient drink water or fluids with electrolyte replacement. This is especially important in patients who have larger burn areas. Fluids can escape through the burn and patients may be at risk for dehydration.
Avoid Doing the Following:
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Applying toothpaste. It may provide a cooling effect, but it can also irritate the skin making the burn worse and harder to clean. In addition to toothpaste, it is also advisable to avoid placing tomatoes, raw eggs, etc. on the affected skin.
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Placing ice on the burn or running it under cold water. This constricts blood vessels and reduces the amount of blood flow on the injured area. For pain relief, the injury may be soothed with cool running water.
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Covering the burn area too tightly. A loose covering would do. Tight bandages can restrict blood flow. It can also decrease air circulation, which can increase surface heat on the skin.
Steam Burns Relief
When the burn has been assessed, doctors may prescribe some creams and ointments that can help soothe the skin. Depending on the depth of the burn recovery can last up to 8 weeks or longer.