What are Hand Burns?
Hand burns are a common injury that can occur doing many different things. Burns are measured in degrees based on the size and depth, ranging from first- to third-degree burns. Each level of burn requires a different form of care:
First-Degree Burns
A first-degree burn only affects the top layer of skin and in most cases, leaves the area red and dry with a bit of pain. Treatment typically includes placing your hand under cool running water or using a cold compress. Apply aloe or burn cream, cover with a bandage, and elevate.
Second-Degree Burns
Second-degree burns go deeper into the skin impacting the second layer of skin. Symptoms typically include red, swollen, and blistered skin. When this occurs, follow the same steps as a first-degree burn and seek medical attention immediately.
Third-Degree Burns
Third-degree burns are serious type of burn that requires immediate medical attention. This type of burn damages the top layer of skin, middle layer of skin, and layer of fat underneath your skin. It can also damage your sweat glands, hair follicles, and nerve endings.
Causes of Hand Burns
The same things that cause first- and second-degree burns can cause a third-degree burn. The more intense the damage source and the longer your body is exposed to the cause, the more damage you’ll have. Common causes of third-degree include:
- Flames from a fire.
- Touching a hot object.
- Ultraviolet radiation and sunburn.
- Boiling water or steam.
- Chemicals
- Radiation
- Electricity
- Dry ice or liquid nitrogen.
Symptoms of Hand Burns
You typically will not feel immediate pain if you have a third-degree burn because of the nerve damage caused by the burn. However, there will be visible signs, including:
- Leathery skin
- Dry skin
- Skin discoloration that’s white, black, or bright red.
- Swelling
- Blisters
- Shiny, moist skin.
Treatment for Hand Burns
If you believe you have experienced a third-degree burn, it is important to seek medical attention right away. While you may not feel pain, immediate intervention is important to prevent permanent damage. Treatment varies for third-degree burns based on size and location. Common treatments include:
- Cleaning the burn – removing debris, dead skin, and tissue from the burned area.
- Covering the burn – your provider will place antibiotic ointment on your burn and cover with a bandage.
- Antibiotics – you may need antibiotics to prevent or clear an infection from your body.
- Skin grafting or reconstructive surgery – for larger third-degree burns, your provider may recommend skin grafting or reconstructive surgery to help the wound close. This includes taking healthy skin from another part of your body to cover the wound.
Prevention for Hand Burns
In most cases, burns are usually preventable. To prevent or reduce the risk of third-degree burns, you can:
- Wear sunscreen
- Avoid touching hot objects.
- Stay away from open flames.
- Keep body parts and anything flammable clear of household heating sources.
- Wear protective clothing when handling objects at extreme temperatures.