Treatment of Burns

Treatment for burns begins with stopping the burning and thereby reducing the depth and extent of injury. After this is done, the individual’s breathing and circulation has to be secured if required.

If the burn is minor, then it can be adequately treated at home before going to the hospital. The objective of first treatment is to cool the body adequately to prevent further damage.

In the hospital, the extent of the burn is assessed and treatment is started accordingly. Fluids are given in order to rehydrate and restore vital fluid pressures in the body. After the injured has been stabilized, wound care is started.

Wound care involves removing the burnt tissue and dressing it. Then antibiotics are given in order reduce infection. Since they are very painful pain management with analgesic is essential. Depending on the extent of burn, pain management is done. Burns that are major and cover large parts of the body often require immediate surgery.

Sun burns can be treated by reducing exposure to sun and by promoting skin healing by dermatological treatment.