Avoid Applying Ice on Burns: Understanding the Rationale
In the event of a burn, it's essential to act quickly to prevent further damage and promote healing. Here are some tips to help you care for burns effectively.
Protecting a mild burn with a dry cloth, non-stick bandage, cling film, or plastic wrap can prevent further irritation. It's also advisable to use a clean, wet towel to provide relief for mild burns.
Applying moisturizer like aloe vera gel can help keep heat-damaged skin hydrated for mild burns. Mild, antibacterial fragrance-free soap or antibiotic cream can be used to keep the burn area clean and prevent infection.
However, it's important to avoid using ice to cool a burn, as it can cause further tissue damage and increase the risk of infection. Instead, cooling with lukewarm water is advised for minor burns.
For strained muscles and minor cuts, using ice to reduce swelling or cold water to clean the area might not be a terrible idea, but it should be used briefly.
If pain from a mild burn worsens, doesn't go away, expands beyond the initial burn site, or you develop a fever or pus, seek medical attention immediately. Similarly, for second- and third-degree burns that cause blisters and break open the skin, prompt medical attention is necessary.
Leaving ice on a burn for too long can result in frostnip, a dangerous precursor to frostbite, and increased damage to the burn and surrounding tissues.
Over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can be used for relief from mild burn pain.
Dr. Capin emphasizes that the faster you get help and treat a burn, the less likelihood there is of infection or worsening complications.
It's crucial to remember that second-degree burns and third-degree burns have the potential to cause nerve damage, which limits or worsens the ability to feel pain. Therefore, if you're unsure about the severity of your burn, it's always best to consult a healthcare provider.
