Burn Wounds
Our team of wound care specialists provides advanced, holistic treatments to alleviate the painful symptoms of burns and promote healing. Burn wounds are among the most common injuries affecting both adults and children. These injuries often result in severe skin damage as surrounding skin cells begin to die. While some burns may heal on their own, more severe or extensive burns require professional care.
Types of Burns
Burns are classified into three levels, each defined by the severity of skin damage. When an area of skin is burned, the skin cells in that area die. First-degree burns are the mildest, while second- and third-degree burns are more severe.
Common signs of each type of burn include:
First-degree burns: The skin will be red without blisters and may exhibit some swelling.
Second-degree burns: The skin will have blisters, sores, and appear thicker in some areas.
Third-degree burns: The skin will be thick, whiter, and have a leathery or raised texture.
Fourth-degree burns are also possible but are rare. These burns exhibit all the symptoms of a third-degree burn and also affect underlying tendons and bones.
Common Causes of Burns
Burns can result from various factors, including:
Scalding from hot liquids
Sun exposure
Chemical burns
Electrical burns
Hot tools such as irons and hair appliances
Fires
It's important to note that the cause of a burn does not determine its severity or type.
Complications from Burn Wounds
Burns not only cause pain but can also lead to several complications. Infections are a common risk, as bacteria can easily enter through the damaged skin. Additionally, burns can cause significant blood loss, damage to tendons or bones, shock, and nerve damage in more severe cases. Although third-degree burns are often thought to be extremely painful, they can sometimes be less painful or even painless due to nerve damage resulting from the burn.
Treatments for Burn Wounds
When you visit Healing Touch WoundCare, our providers will assess your burn to determine its severity and identify any underlying damage. Based on this evaluation, they will recommend a treatment plan or a combination of therapies to address the wound effectively. Available treatments include:
Compression therapy
Wound cleaning
Wound debridement
Infection control
Specialized dressings
Bioengineered skin grafts
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
When Should I Seek Treatment for a Burn Wound?
While minor burns can often be treated at home, some situations require professional medical attention. Seek medical care if:
The burn exceeds 3 inches in diameter
The burn worsens with increasing pain or an unusual odor
You develop a high fever
The skin appears white or waxy
The burn turns dark brown
The skin has a raised or leathery texture
Third-degree burns are serious and should never be managed at home. If you suspect a third-degree burn, contact Healing Touch WoundCare right away to arrange a professional evaluation.
Why Choose Healing Touch WoundCare
The Healing Touch WoundCare team is one of the few practices to offer specialized care for atypical wounds. Our staff can evaluate your wound to determine if it is atypical and provide comprehensive care solutions. We offer a wide range of therapies that can be used independently or in combination.
Our team of highly-trained providers will also teach you how to properly care for your wound at home. This includes demonstrating how to thoroughly clean the wound, protect healthy skin, and change dressings. If you think you may have an atypical wound, call Healing Touch or book an appointment online today.
