Jaipur Fire: How Can You Treat First-degree and Minor Burns Before Seeking Emergency Help?

Dec 20, 2024
News

Police said around 40 people have been injured, 28 victims are in critical condition, and many have first-degree burns

A deadly collision between a CNG tanker and several vehicles turned a stretch of the Jaipur-Ajmer highway into an inferno, killing at least eight people. According to news reports, the explosion was so intense that several vehicles within a 300-meter radius were engulfed and completely burned. Several drivers were reportedly burnt in the incident, with some in critical condition.
Police said around 40 people have been injured and 28 victims are in critical condition with first-degree burns.

What are first-degree burns?

A first-degree burn - also known as superficial burn or wound is an injury that affects the first layer of your skin. Even though first-degree burns are mild forms of skin injuries, they usually do not require medical treatment. However, some superficial burns can be quite large or painful and may require a trip to your doctor.

Signs and symptoms of first-degree burns

Signs and symptoms of first-degree burns are often minor and tend to heal after several days. The most common things you may notice at first are skin redness, pain, and swelling. The pain and swelling may be mild and your skin may start to peel after a day or so. However, in contrast, second-degree burns form blisters and are more painful due to the increased depth of the burn wound.
For a first-degree burn that occurs in larger areas of your skin, you may experience an increased level of pain and swelling.

Ways to treat burns

According to doctors, first-degree burns can be treated easily at home. However, after you have done the basic first aid, it is always important to show it to the doctor, who will examine the burn to determine its severity. They will look at the burn to see:
  • How deep it penetrates the skin’s layers
  • If it is large or in an area that requires immediate treatment, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth
  • If there are any signs of infection like oozing, pus, or swelling
  • If your burn becomes infected, swollen, or extremely painful and is healing slower, you need to visit the hospital.
To treat a burn at home, make sure to place a cool compress over it to relieve the pain and swelling for at least 15 minutes. However, avoid using ice or extremely cold compresses because they can aggravate the burn.
Do not apply any kind of oil, including butter, to a burn, as they could prevent healing. However, you can use products containing aloe vera with lidocaine that help with pain and are available over the counter. Also, you can use honey, body lotions, or any antibiotic ointments to reduce drying and speed up the repair of the damaged skin.

How long does a burn take to heal?

When the skin begins to heal, the area around the burn will peel. Additionally, it may take three to 20 days for a first-degree burn to heal properly. Healing time may depend on the area affected. Always consult your doctor if the burn shows signs of infection or becomes worse.
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