Second Degree Burn: What It Looks Like, Treatment & Healing

A second degree burn is severe and poses greater threat than a first degree burn. 2nd degree burns don’t just harm the skin but also the overall wellbeing of the victim. The damage extends beyond the outer layer of the skin and reaches the dermis. This causes intense pain, swelling and blisters. Understanding the appearance of second degree burns can help the patient receive proper care and timely treatment. 

According to the data shared by the World Health Organization, over 180,000 deaths every year, globally, are caused by burns. Immediate and appropriate treatment is crucial to prevent deterioration and irreversible damages. In this blog, we will understand what a 2nd degree burn looks like, along with effective treatment methods and tips to boost the healing journey. By the end of this blog, you will have a comprehensive understanding of second degree burns and the best management strategies to effectively navigate through the process.

What does a second degree burn look like?

Second degree burns penetrate deeper than first degree burns. This kind of burn affects the outer as well as the inner layer of the skin. Characterized by intense symptoms and visual signs, early recognition can make the entire treatment process easy. This is how a second degree burn can be identified visually:

• Redness and Swelling: The affected area will appear red and swollen, often more pronounced than in first-degree burns.
• Blistering: One of the most noticeable signs of a second-degree burn is the formation of blisters. These blisters may be small or large and can be filled with clear fluid or pus.
• Shiny and Wet Appearance: The burned skin may have a shiny or wet look due to the leakage of fluid from the blisters.
• Intense Pain: The area is usually very painful, more so than first-degree burns, due to the involvement of nerve endings in the dermis.
• Swollen Skin: The skin in the affected area will be swollen, which can make the burn appear puffier than the surrounding tissue.
• Red or Pink Color: The burn may have a red or pinkish hue, and the color may vary depending on the severity and depth of the burn.

Read More: Chemical Burns: First Aid Treatment and Prevention Tips

First Aid: How to treat burns?

Burns can range from mild to severe. But despite the degree, it is important to provide prompt action to reduce damage and prevent infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to treat burns effectively:

1. Assess the Burn

• Determine the Severity: Identify if the burn is first-degree, second-degree, or third-degree. This will guide your treatment approach.
• Check for Associated Injuries: Look for any signs of shock, difficulty breathing, or severe pain.

2. Stop the Burning Process

• For Heat Burns: Remove the person from the source of heat. If the burn is caused by clothing, carefully remove any burned clothing unless it is stuck to the skin.
• For Chemical Burns: Rinse the affected area with lukewarm water for at least 15-20 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing, but avoid using chemicals to neutralize the burn unless directed by a medical professional.

3. Cool the Burn

• Apply Cool Water: Gently pour cool (not cold) running water over the burn for 10-15 minutes. This helps to reduce pain and swelling. Avoid using ice or very cold water as it can worsen the damage.
• Avoid Ice or Creams: Do not apply ice, butter, or creams, as these can cause further irritation or infection.

4. Protect the Burned Area

• Cover with a Sterile Bandage: Use a non-stick, sterile dressing or clean cloth to cover the burn. Avoid using cotton or materials that may leave fibers behind.
• Avoid Popping Blisters: If blisters are present, do not pop them as they protect the underlying skin and help prevent infection.

5. Relieve Pain

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: You may administer over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain, following the dosing instructions.
• Avoid Applying Ointments: Do not apply ointments, oils, or other remedies that are not specifically designed for burns.

6. Seek Medical Attention

• When to Call a Doctor: Seek professional medical help if the burn is deep, covers a large area, involves the face, hands, feet, or genitals, or if there are signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.
• For Severe Burns: For third-degree burns or if the person shows signs of shock (such as pale skin, rapid pulse, or confusion), call emergency services immediately.

7. Monitor and Follow-Up

• Watch for Infection: Keep an eye on the burn for any signs of infection or unusual changes. Keep the area clean and dry.
• Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to any instructions provided by healthcare professionals for follow-up care and treatment.

What are the 2nd degree burn healing stages?

Second-degree burns affect both the epidermis and dermis, and their healing process involves several stages. Understanding these stages can help you monitor recovery and manage care effectively.

1. Initial Phase (0-3 Days)

• Redness and Swelling: The burn area is red, swollen, and painful. Blisters may form, filled with clear fluid or pus.
• Fluid Leakage: Blisters may burst, and fluid may leak, creating a moist appearance.
• Pain Management: Pain is often severe during this stage, requiring appropriate pain relief measures.

2. Inflammatory Phase (3-7 Days)

• Blistering and Breakdown: Blisters continue to break down, and the burned area may appear more open and raw.
• Redness and Swelling: Redness and swelling persist as the body’s inflammatory response works to clean the wound and start the healing process.
• New Skin Formation: The underlying dermis begins to regenerate, and new tissue starts forming.

3. Proliferative Phase (1-3 Weeks)

• Reepithelialization: New skin cells begin to cover the wound. This process involves the formation of a thin layer of new skin that gradually thickens.
• Wound Healing: The burn area starts to contract as new tissue forms, reducing the size of the wound.
• Reduced Pain: Pain may decrease as healing progresses, although some discomfort may still be present.

4. Maturation Phase (3 Weeks to Several Months)

• Scar Formation: As healing continues, a scar may form. The scar tissue is initially red and raised but will gradually fade and flatten over time.
• Skin Remodeling: The skin continues to remodel and strengthen. The new tissue gains strength and flexibility.
• Ongoing Care: Continue to protect the burn area from the sun and follow any prescribed treatments to minimize scarring and promote full recovery.

5. Long-Term Care (Months to Years)

• Scar Maturation: Scars may continue to evolve and change in appearance for up to two years. They may initially be red and lumpy but will eventually become less noticeable.
• Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy may be needed to address any functional limitations or to improve the appearance of the scar.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider ensures that the burn is healing properly and that any complications are addressed.

Read More: Code Red in Hospitals: What Do Hospital Color Codes Mean?

When to call the doctor?

1. Burns Larger than 3 Inches: If the burn covers a large area (greater than 3 inches in diameter) or involves multiple areas, such as the arms, legs, back, or chest, seek medical advice.
2. Burns on Sensitive Areas: If the burn is on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or joints, it is crucial to consult a doctor due to the potential for functional impairment and cosmetic issues.
3. Signs of Infection: If you notice signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or a foul odor coming from the burn, seek medical attention promptly.
4. Severe Pain: If the pain is severe and not managed by over-the-counter pain relievers, or if it worsens over time, a doctor’s evaluation is necessary.
5. Blisters that Burst or are Large: If blisters burst or are very large, and you are concerned about infection or proper care, consult a healthcare professional.
6. Signs of Shock: If the person shows symptoms of shock, such as pale skin, rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, or confusion, seek emergency medical care immediately.
7. Burns in Children or the Elderly: Children and elderly individuals are more vulnerable to complications from burns. Any significant second-degree burn in these age groups should be evaluated by a doctor.
8. Pre-Existing Health Conditions: If the person has pre-existing health conditions that could complicate the healing process, such as diabetes or a compromised immune system, medical evaluation is recommended.
9. No Improvement: If the burn does not show signs of improvement within a few days, or if symptoms worsen despite proper first aid, consult a healthcare provider.
10. Uncertainty or Concerns: If you have any doubts about the severity of the burn or the appropriate care, it’s always better to consult a doctor for guidance and reassurance.

Conclusion

Understanding a second degree burn and how to treat them is essential for effective management and recovery. These burns present with red, swollen skin, blisters, and significant pain. By following the guidelines stated in this blog, you can manage second degree burns more effectively. Proper understanding is important to support recovery and reduce the risk of long term side effects. The right steps at the right time doesn’t only aid healing but greatly contributes to the overall comfort and well-being of the patient.