SI Question - Burns - graphic maybe?

sunshine! · 15-05-2009, 04:15 AM

I burned myself and am not really sure what to do next!
Usually I take a long time to blister, but these came up straight away, I usually burst them as it's more convenient but I know it's not best.
Also, there are a couple of small patches that were burning for longer, here the skin is white and feels kind of strange, and is not painful at all? The red skin hurts a lot, but the white skin I can poke (I know, not smart) and just not feel anything, not even the usual pain you get from that?
I generally get infected burns, not really sure why because I keep them terribly clean...what else can I do to stop this?
Should I go to my GP? They probably need a bigger dressing than what I can get in the pharmacy. Probably won't be able to get an appointment tomorrow though as it's the end of the week.
Also, until I can see someone, is there anything I can put over it so that it won't stick to or rub against my clothes? Pretty limited first aid wise I'm afraid :S

Thanks!

Mad-Mad-World · 15-05-2009, 06:34 AM

Click vvvvv
http://www.recoveryourlife.com/index.php?categoryid=91

You need to see your GP, if you can't feel when you poke it, that means you damaged nerves.

The article really covers more than I know, but... DON'T POT BLISTERS! It opens you up to all sorts of nasty infections.

Definitely either get to the A&E, or make an emergency appointment with your GP.

Animad · 15-05-2009, 09:59 AM

This needs to get checked out. From your description the white one sounds like a full thickness (3rd degree) burn and so should be assessed by a doctor.

Read the wound care guide and the burns article on this site and they should also give info on how to usually treat them. The infections article may also be useful.

Also, they are MUCH more likely to get infected if you pop the blisters so as you say you do and they become infected, I think you have your answer and solution there, don't pop them. This will also worsen scarring and will dramatically slow down healing. Make sure you keep them as clean as possible and covered by dressings; preferably burns ones but for the moment get them checked by a nurse or doctor.