The symptoms of burns can vary depending on the severity and depth of the injury. Some of the common symptoms include.
- Redness: Superficial burns, like first-degree burns, typically cause the skin to appear red and inflamed. This redness occurs due to increased blood flow to the area as the body responds to the injury.
- Blisters: In second-degree burns, fluid-filled blisters often develop on the skin’s surface. These blisters can vary in size and may be painful. They serve to protect the underlying skin during the healing process, and it’s important not to pop them to prevent infection.
- Swelling: Swelling can develop around the burn area, affecting both the skin and underlying tissues. This indicates that the body is increasing blood flow and supplying essential nutrients to support the healing process.
- Peeling skin: As burns heal, especially in second-degree and deeper injuries, the outer layer of skin may begin to peel. This peeling is part of the natural healing process, but keeping the area clean and moisturised is essential during recovery.
- Pain: The level of pain associated with burns can vary significantly. First-degree burns might cause mild discomfort, while deeper burns, such as second and third-degree, can lead to severe pain due to nerve damage. Pain is an important indicator of burn severity and may require medical treatment for relief.
- White or charred skin: In cases of third-degree burns, the skin may appear white, leathery, or charred. This indicates damage to all layers of the skin and may affect underlying tissues. Such severe injuries require immediate medical attention due to the risk of complications like infection and scarring.
- Systemic reactions: Severe burns can also lead to systemic reactions, including fever, chills, and shock, indicating a serious condition that requires urgent medical care.
Causes of Burns
Burns can result from various sources, each with its own set of risks and potential complications. These include:
- Thermal burns: Exposure to heat sources such as hot metals, scalding liquids, steam, or flames can cause thermal burns. These burns are the most common type and can occur in various settings, from domestic accidents to industrial incidents.
- Radiation burns: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or other sources of radiation, such as X-rays, can lead to radiation burns. These burns often affect the skin and eyes, causing symptoms like redness, pain, and, in severe cases, blistering.
- Chemical burns: Contact with strong acids, alkalis, or other corrosive substances can cause chemical burns. These burns can be particularly dangerous as the chemicals may continue to damage the skin even after initial contact.
- Electrical burns: Exposure to electrical currents can cause electrical burns, which can be severe and may affect internal organs. These burns often occur in occupational settings or as a result of faulty electrical equipment.
- Friction burns: Prolonged or intense สมัคร UFABET วันนี้ รับเครดิตฟรีสำหรับสมาชิกใหม่ rubbing of the skin against a surface can cause friction burns. These burns are common in sports activities or accidents involving contact with rough surfaces, such as road rash from a bicycle fall.