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Sistema Tegumentar Sistema Muscular Sistema Esquelético

Burns: what to do at the time and when to seek help

12/04/2026

Burns are common accidents in everyday life, they can happen in the kitchen, with hot water, oil, fire or even chemical products. Although many may seem simple at first, some can evolve in a more serious way if not treated correctly. Knowing how to act in the first minutes makes a real difference in recovery.

What to do immediately after a burn

The first action is to stop contact with the heat source.

Then:

Place the burned area under running cold water for about 10 to 20 minutes
Remove nearby accessories (rings, watches, tight clothing) before the area swells
Cover the area with clean cloth or gauze

Avoid common practices that can worsen the injury:

Do not apply toothpaste, butter, coffee, or any homemade product
Do not pop blisters
Do not apply ice directly to the skin

These simple measures help reduce skin damage and relieve pain.

How to know if the burn is more serious

Not all burns are the same. Some signs indicate greater attention:

Large blisters or very damaged skin
Whitened, dark, or "dry-looking" areas
Very intense pain or, conversely, absence of pain
Burns on the face, hands, feet, or intimate areas

Additionally, if the affected area is large (for example, larger than the palm of your hand), care should be doubled.

When to seek medical care

Seek healthcare if there are:

Large or deep burns
Intense and persistent pain
Signs of infection (redness, pus, fever)
Difficulty breathing after exposure to smoke or fire
Children, elderly people, or people with chronic diseases involved

Even when it seems mild, medical evaluation can prevent complications.

Why burns deserve attention

The skin is a protective barrier for the body. When it is injured:

There is risk of infection
Fluid loss can occur
In more extensive cases, the entire body can be affected

Therefore, correct initial care and observation in the first few hours are fundamental.

When facing a burn:

Cool with running water
Do not use homemade products
Protect the area
Observe signs of severity
Seek help if you are in doubt

Burns are part of daily life, but should not be taken lightly.

Acting in a simple, quick, and correct manner is what really changes the outcome.

Dr. Rebeca Soares Andrade CRM-GO 39335

DR

Written by

Dra. Rebeca Soares Andrade

Physician · CRM GO-39335

Content based on scientific evidence, clinical reasoning, and ethical commitment.

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