WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is a flash burn? A flash burn is caused by an explosion of natural gas, propane, gasoline, or other flammable liquid. Any unprotected part of your skin that is exposed to the explosion can get burned. The severity of your burn may depend on how long your skin was exposed to heat from the explosion. The burn can be a first degree or superficial second degree burn. What do I need to know about a first degree flash burn? Your skin contains 3 layers. A first degree burn is a burn of the first or outermost layer of your skin. A first degree burn heals within 3 to 7 days. Symptoms of a first degree burn include the following: - Red, dry, tender skin
- Swelling
- Skin that turns white when touched
- Skin that is painful to the touch
What do I need to know about a superficial second degree flash burn? A superficial second degree burn is also called a partial thickness burn. This type of burn occurs when the first layer and some of the second layer of your skin are burned. There is no damage in the deeper layers of your skin or in your sweat or oil glands. A superficial second degree burn heals within 7 to 21 days. Symptoms include the following: - Blisters and peeling skin
- Skin that turns white when touched
- Red, moist skin
- Skin that is very painful to the touch
How is a flash burn diagnosed and treated? All clothing, jewelry, and foreign objects will be removed from the burn area. Your healthcare provider will examine your burn and determine how severe it is. Treatment depends on the type of burn you have. You may need any of the following: - The burn may be cooled with water or moist gauze. This will help relieve pain and decrease swelling. This can also help to limit tissue damage caused by the burn.
- The burn may be cleaned with a cleanser or gauze. Damaged tissue may also be removed.
- A cream or ointment helps to decrease pain or prevent infection. The burn will be covered with a bandage. The ointment may be placed on your skin or may be part of your bandage.
- Pain medicine may be given. Ask how to take this medicine safely.
- Physical therapy may be recommended if the skin over a joint is burned. A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain.
How do I care for my flash burn at home? You may need to change your bandages at least once a day. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for caring for your burn. He may recommend the following: - Wash your hands with soap and water and remove old bandages. You may need to soak the bandage in water before you remove it so it will not stick to your wound.
- Gently clean the burned area daily with water and pat dry. Look for any swelling or redness around the burn. Do not break closed blisters because this increases the risk for infection. If a blister breaks, clean the area as you would the rest of the burn.
- Apply cream or ointment to the burn with a cotton swab. Place a nonstick bandage over your burn.
- Wrap a layer of gauze around the bandage to hold it in place. The wrap should be snug but not tight. Make sure you can insert one to two fingers between the bandage and your skin. It is too tight if you feel tingling or lose feeling in that area. Apply gentle pressure for a few minutes if bleeding occurs.
- Elevate your burned arm or leg above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your arm or leg on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
When should I seek immediate care? - You have severe pain, even after you take pain medicine.
- You have a fast heartbeat or breathing.
- You are urinating very little or not at all.
- Blood soaks through your bandage.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have a fever.
- Your urine is dark brown or tea colored.
- You have increased redness, numbness, or swelling in the burn area.
- Your wound or bandage is leaking pus and has a bad smell.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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