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Glossary

Conditions

Burns

Burns are categorized according to their severity.

1. A first-degree burn is more superficial and is characterized by redness (most sunburns fit this type of burn category).

2. A second-degree burn is deeper and results in blistering and splitting of skin layers (scalding and severe sunburn usually belong to this type).

3. Third degree burns, in which the skin and underlying tissue and muscle are destroyed, are usually painless because nerve endings have been destroyed. In addition, skin may be charred. These are the most serious types of burns and can cause significant fluid loss.

Signs and Symptoms:

First-degree burns (usually do not require medical treatment):

  • Pain
  • Red skin
  • Restlessness
  • Fever
  • Headache

Second degree burns (Not all of the dermis is damaged and healing usually results without scarring unless the burn is extensive):

  • See 1st degree burn symptoms
  • Blisters form

Third degree burns (seek immediate medical treatment for fluid loss and other complications):

  • Pain is absent
  • Skin tissue and muscle can be destroyed with bones being visible in some cases
  • The area will look white or charred red

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis is done through a physical examination. The doctor may also check for possible complications due to smoke inhalation if appropriate.

Treatment Options:

Treatments depend on the extent of the burns. First-degree burns can usually be treated with alternative/natural treatments or over-the-counter ointments. Typical, second-degree burns can also be treated at home with natural remedies and over-the-counter substances. If a second-degree burn involves the face, hands, feet, eyes or pelvic area you should seek immediate medical attention. Second or third degree burns that affect more than ten percent of the body require immediate medical treatment for possible shock and fluid loss. Third degree burns need immediate medical treatment with traditional methods that may include skin grafting.

Traditional Treatments:

First Aid for Burns (treatments that should be applied immediately ­ until professional treatment is available):

  • Apply cold water ­ not ice water- to the skin for at least five minutes.
  • If the burn is chemical in nature, continue to flush the area with water.
  • Remove any watches, jewelry, rings and constricting clothing from the area before swelling occurs.
  • Dress the area with a clean, nonfluffy material.
  • In the case of severe burns, do not remove clothing that is stuck to the wound. Cover any exposed areas with a clean, dry nonfluffy cloth and secure it until professional treatment is available.

Your doctor will want to determine the severity of the burn and will recommend the following treatments accordingly: antibiotic therapy, skin grafting, antibacterial ointments, wound dressing, or hospitalization if the burn is extensive enough (for the administration of IV fluids to prevent dehydration and shock and to guard against infections).

Complementary and Alternative Therapies:

Alternative therapies are the best way to treat first and slight second degree burns. They can also help speed the recovery of severe second and third degree burns.

Nutritional Supplementation:

  • Potassium can be lost from burns and should be replaced as soon as possible. Take as directed using chelated products that are food-based.
  • Vitamin A with beta-carotene contributes greatly to the regeneration of epithelial and mucosal surfaces of the skin. Take 50,000 IU of vitamin A and 25,000 IU of beta-carotene until healing is sufficient.
  • Zinc inhibits inflammation and promotes tissue healing. Take 75 to 100 mg per a day (in 25 or 50 mg doses).
    Warning:     Do not exceed 100 mg per day.
  • Glycosaminoglycans is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that contributes to the regeneration of connective tissue. Take as directed.
  • Colloidal silver is a natural antibiotic and disinfectant that promotes healing. Use a spray form.
    Warning:     Do not use on third degree burns without consulting a physician as it may interfere with other treatments.
  • Free-form amino acid complex can help in the healing of skin tissue. Follow label directions.

Alternative Therapies:

  • Aloe vera pulp, gel, or liquid can be applied to first and second-degree burns as needed to relieve pain and to speed healing.
  • Bayberry, black or green tea, blackberry leaves, sumac leaves, sweet gum and white oak bark contain tannic acid which has been used in clinics for surface burns that have begun to heal. These herbs can be used as teas and wet compresses.
  • Calendula, applied topically to the burned area as a gel or ointment, is effective as an anti-inflammatory agent and antiseptic.
  • An herbal compress made with comfrey leaf and wheat germ oil can be applied to the burn to help sooth the pain.
  • Apply fresh ginger juice or strong black tea to the burned area using cotton balls or a compress.
  • Horsetail and slippery elm help skin tissue to heal.
  • Tea tree oil is effective for minor burns, primarily as and antiseptic and to help soothe the burned area.
  • Gotu kola helps to speed healing of skin tissue.

General Recommendations:

  • If a blister forms, do not puncture it.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Avoid high sodium intake while healing.
  • Eat a high protein diet while recovering from severe burns.
  • Watch for signs of infection, odor, pus, or extreme redness in the area of the burn.
  • Protect healing burns from sunlight.
  • For acid or chemical burns, use baking soda or apple cider vinegar added to warm water. Apply the mixture to the affected area using a clean cloth. If possible soak the burned area in this liquid. Apply the mixture for five minutes once a day.
  • Keep burn injuries elevated to minimize swelling. If infection starts to set in, apply honey three times a day after gently washing the area with hydrogen peroxide. Warning: Those recovering from third degree burns should contact their doctor immediately if they suspect an infection.

Warnings:

  • Those recovering from third degree burns should contact their doctor immediately if they suspect an infection.
  • Third degree burns (and severe second degree burns) need immediate medical attention.
  • Do not use colloidal silver sprays on third degree burns without consulting a physician as it may interfere with other treatments.
  • Do not exceed 100 mg per day of zinc per a day.

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