Burns

Posted on 29 February 2008

Summary

• Burns are commonly caused by the sun, hot liquids, fire, electricity or chemicals.
• Burns are classified according to depth and size as superficial, intermediate or deep.
• Superficial and intermediate burns are treated primarily by cooling the area.
• Deep burns must also be cooled, but require emergency hospital care.
• Prevent burns in children by never leaving them unsupervised around dangers like fires and stioves.

What causes burns?

Burns are the greatest cause of unnatural death among South African children under age five. Burns commonly result from the sun, scalding by hot liquids, fire, electricity or chemicals. Very young children have especially sensitive skin and even a burn from a cup of coffee can prove fatal.

What are the symptoms and signs of burns?
Pain is not an indicator of the severity of a burn. Burns are classified into superficial, intermediate and deep

The information provided in this article was correct at the time of publishing. At Mediclinic we endeavour to provide our patients and readers with accurate and reliable information, which is why we continually review and update our content. However, due to the dynamic nature of clinical information and medicine, some information may from time to time become outdated prior to revision.