There are several types of burn injuries, and treatment requires examination of the skin to determine the severity of the burn. The percentage of the body that is affected by the burn and the depth of the burn are determining factors for treatment.

The American Burn Association has developed criteria to help a doctor decide when a burn victim needs to be treated at a burn center. If more than 10% of the body is affected, or if the burn is very deep or on the face, feet or in the groin area, the patient should be seen at a burn center.

Burns that do not require specialized treatment from a burn center but are more serious than can be handled adequately at home can be treated by an urgent care physician. Your doctor will want to know how the burn occurred and if you have other symptoms along with the burn. You will need to tell the doctor about any health conditions like diabetes, which could impact treatment and the healing process.

If you have used burn treatments at home before going to see your doctor, you will need to discuss those. Any changes in the appearance of the burn should be noted as well.

Burn Symptoms

Not every burn is the result of a fire. Burns can be caused by overexposure to the sun, chemicals, scalding or electricity. Some will be minor and can easily be treated at home. Others will require the medical expertise of a doctor.

A 1st-degree burn is minor and can cause pain and redness. It only affects the outer layer of the skin. The 2nd-degree burn damages the first and second layers of the skin. This burn can cause swelling, and the skin may look splotchy, white or red. Blisters often develop with 2nd-degree burns and they can be painful and cause scarring.

A 3rd-degree burn can cause nerve damage. This is a severe burn that reaches the layer of fat beneath the skin. It can cause the skin to look leathery and the burned areas may be black, brown or white.

If you sustain a burn that requires medical attention, contact Dr. Michael. He will examine the area and make recommendations regarding treatment and follow-up care.