What kind of burn do i have

This article discusses different types of burn, their symptoms, how to treat them, and when to seek medical attention. The skin consists of three different layers that protect against viruses and bacteria entering the body.

These are:. This is the visible outer layer of skin that helps regulate temperature and protect the body. It does not contain any blood vessels. Superficial or first-degree burns only affect the epidermis , which remains intact. Often treatable at home, a first-degree burn is the least severe. The dermis is the lower level of the skin. Called the papillary region, it consists of collagen, nerve endings, sweat glands, and elastic fibers. It is also the thickest layer of skin, providing flexibility and strength.

A second-degree burn is one that reaches the dermis. This is more serious than a first-degree burn. This consists of adipose tissue that stores energy in the form of fat.

It is also connective tissue that cushions and insulates the body. Any burn that destroys all layers of the skin and reaches the hypodermis is a third-degree burn. Third-degree burns are severe and require immediate medical attention.

All types of burns can be painful and produce visible symptoms. Understanding the kind of burn and its severity is essential when assessing medical treatment. There are three levels:. A first-degree burn is the most common type of burn. Symptoms include :.

Sometimes blisters and peeling may occur. If touched, the skin may blanch lighten in color. The epidermis typically remains intact. While first-degree burns may be painful, long-term damage is rare. First-degree burns often heal on their own within a week. A person may require medical treatment if the burn is over a large area of skin. Speak with a healthcare provider for advice. Second-degree burns affect deeper layers in the skin than first-degree burns and can involve intense pain.

They affect the epidermis and dermis, with the burn site often appearing swollen and blistered. The area may also look wet, and the blisters can break open, forming a scab-like tissue. Doctors also call them partial-thickness burns. A second-degree burn is more likely to require medical treatment, depending on its location and depth. Causes of second-degree burns include:. This is the most severe type of burn and requires medical treatment.

Nerve and blood vessel damage often leave the burn site looking pale in color or blackened and charred. Mild sunburn is an example. Long-term tissue damage is rare and often consists of an increase or decrease in the skin color. Second-degree partial thickness burns. Second-degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the lower layer of skin, the dermis. The burn site looks red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful.

Third-degree full thickness burns. Third-degree burns destroy the epidermis and dermis. They may go into the innermost layer of skin, the subcutaneous tissue.

The burn site is red, painful, dry, and with no blisters. Mild sunburn is an example. Long-term tissue damage is rare and often consists of an increase or decrease in the skin color. Second-degree partial thickness burns.

Second-degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the lower layer of skin, the dermis. The burn site looks red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful.