Minor Burns: Emergency Care for First and Second-Degree

Understanding Minor Burns

At The Emergency Center we offer immediate and expert care for minor burns, including first-degree and some second-degree burns, which damage the skin but typically do not extend to deeper tissues. They can cause significant pain and discomfort but are generally manageable with appropriate care.

Symptoms of Minor Burns

First-Degree Burns: Affect the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). Symptoms include redness, pain, and mild swelling.
Second-Degree Burns: Affect both the epidermis and the second layer (dermis). Symptoms include blisters, severe pain, and redness.

When to Go to the ER

Seek emergency care for minor burns if:

Large Area Affected: The burn covers a large area of the body, such as a major joint or face.
Signs of Infection: Increased pain, redness, swelling, or oozing pus.
Severe Pain: Pain that cannot be managed with over-the-counter medications.
High-Risk Individuals: Burns in children, elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.

Person with a light sun burn and peeling skin on shoulder

Common Causes

Minor burns can result from various sources, including:

Thermal Burns: Caused by hot liquids, steam, or flames.
Chemical Burns: Exposure to harsh chemicals.
Electrical Burns: Contact with electrical sources.
Radiation Burns: Overexposure to UV radiation from the sun or other sources.