What are categories of burns?
The categories of burns and their treatment very much depend on depth, area and location of burn. Burn depth is generally categorized as first, second or third degree. A first degree burn is superficial and has similar characteristics to the typical sun burn. The skin is red in color and sensation is intact. In fact, it is usually somewhat painful. Second degree burns look similar to first degree burns; however, damage is now severe enough to cause blistering of skin and pain is usually somewhat more intense. In third degree burns the damage has progressed to the point of skin death. The skin is white and without any sensation.

Regardless of type of the burn, result is fluid accumulation and inflammation in and around wound. Moreover, it should be noted that skin is the body's first defense against infection by microorganisms. Damage to skin can predispose burn victim to both infection at site of wound as well as internally.

What is significance of total body area affected?
In addition to intensity, total area of the burn is significant. This is usually measured in terms of percent of total body burnt. skin acts as a barrier from environment, and without it, patients are subjected to infection and fluid loss. Burns that cover more than 15% of total body surface can lead to shock and require hospitalization for intravenous fluid resuscitation and skin care.

Burn First Aid Treatement
First remove any constricting jewelry, such as rings. Do NOT use butter or oils on a burn. The effected area should be dowsed with cool water as soon as possible. It can be cleansed gently with chlorhexidine solution. Do NOT apply ice or cool to near-freezing temperatures (this can cause additional tissue injury).

A tetanus booster should be obtained if not administered within previous 5 years. First degree thermal burns can be treated with local skin care such as aloe vera. Many topical antibiotics and antiseptics are available in drug store for minor burns.

All second and third degree thermal burns and complicated locations listed above need immediate physician evaluation. Special topical antiseptic creams are used for more serious burns, including silver sulfdiazine, silver nitrate, and mafenide acetate creams.

What about chemical burns?
The treatment for chemical burns is similar to the thermal burns except copious amounts of water should be used to irrigate effected region. Contaminated clothing should be removed. Do NOT attempt to neutralize burn with a reciprocal chemical. This may cause a chemical reaction that could result in a thermal burn too! Many chemicals have, in addition, specific treatments that can further reduce resulting skin damage. If you are uncertain, call your local poison control center or make quick trip to your local Emergency Room.