Second degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis. Aside from blisters, pain and swelling, the burnt skin will look wet, shiny, and red or discolored in an irregular pattern. Burns of this degree are usually caused by hot liquids or gases, and direct contact to flames or a hot object. Burns at this level that does not cover more than ten percent of the skinâs surface can usually be treated at home, although the specific treatment to be used should be determined by a physician.
Immediate treatment is essential to the prevention of other problems associated with burns as well as to shorten healing time. To stop the pain and the burn from becoming more serious, rinse the burned skin with cool water for 15 to 30 minutes or until the pain stops. If it is more convenient for you, you may also dip affected extremities in a basin of cool water, or wrap them lightly with cool compresses.
Keep in mind that you should not rinse or dip the burned area in ice or ice water as these can damage the skin more. Swelling is to be expected for second-degree burns, so it is imperative that you remove any piece of jewelry or garment which can tighten as the affected area swells. If the burn is on a leg or an arm, keep the limb elevated for the first 24 to 48 hours to prevent swelling. The burned limb should be moved regularly to prevent the formation of contractures too.
Never put sprays or butter on burns as these trap the heat inside the burn. Topical creams may be given to protect the burned area from getting infected and to hasten the healing process. One of the commonly prescribed topical medications is silver sulfadiazine which kills a wide variety of bacteria. Silver sulfadiazine is generally safe when used exactly as directed. In most cases, it is applied only once or twice a day.
Nonetheless, since it is a pharmaceutical drug, there is always that chance of it interacting with other drugs or causing some unwanted effects. This underscores the importance of being evaluated by a doctor prior to starting any treatment. The affected area needs to be cleansed with mild soap and water and dried with clean gauze prior to the application of the cream.
It would be counterintuitive to touch the burn with bare hands or anything dirty as this will only infect the blisters which have already broken open. Always wear a sterile, disposable glove when you apply silver sulfadiazine to prevent infection. If the burned skin or blisters have broken open or are likely to become dirty to be irritated by clothing, applying bandage may be necessary.