Burns Patient: Types, Causes, Degrees, Diet Chart, and Treatment
Burns are among the most painful and traumatic injuries that can affect the skin, underlying tissues, and even bones. Whether caused by fire, hot liquids, chemicals, or electricity, burns require immediate attention and specialized care. This comprehensive guide covers the types, causes, degrees of burns, the ideal diet for burn patients, and effective treatment methods.
What is a Burn?
A burn is damage to the skin or other tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, sunlight, or radiation. Burns can range from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions, depending on the depth and extent of tissue damage.
Types of Burns
Burns are classified into several types based on their cause:
1. Thermal Burns
These are caused by external sources of heat such as fire, hot liquids (scalds), steam, or hot objects.
2. Chemical Burns
Occur when the skin or eyes come into contact with strong acids, alkalis, or other corrosive substances.
3. Electrical Burns
Caused by electric current passing through the body. These burns may not appear severe on the skin but can cause serious internal injuries.
4. Radiation Burns
Result from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays (sunburn) or radiation therapy.
5. Friction Burns
Occur due to the skin rubbing against a hard surface. It’s a combination of abrasion and heat.
Causes of Burns
Common causes of burns include:
• Open flames (cooking, fire accidents)
• Hot liquids (boiling water, oil)
• Electrical equipment malfunction
• Chemical spills or exposure
• Sun exposure
• Explosions or accidents
• Steam from machines
• Friction injuries (e.g., road rash)
Degrees of Burns
Burns are categorized into degrees based on severity:
1. First-Degree Burns (Superficial Burns)
• Affects only the outer layer of skin (epidermis).
• Symptoms: Redness, mild swelling, pain.
• Heals within a week without scarring.
2. Second-Degree Burns (Partial Thickness)
• Involves both the outer and underlying layers of skin.
• Symptoms: Redness, swelling, blistering, intense pain.
• Healing may take 2–3 weeks; scarring is possible.
3. Third-Degree Burns (Full Thickness)
• Destroys both skin layers and may affect underlying tissues, fat, or nerves.
• Symptoms: White or charred skin, numbness (due to nerve damage).
• Requires medical intervention and possibly skin grafting.
4. Fourth-Degree Burns
• Extend into muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones.
• Symptoms: Blackened, charred skin with no pain (due to nerve destruction).
• Life-threatening and requires emergency treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Burns
• Depending on severity and cause, symptoms may include:
• Redness and inflammation
• Blisters or peeling skin
• Pain or numbness
• Swelling
• Charring (black or white skin)
• Shock in severe cases (pale skin, low BP, rapid pulse)
Diagnosis of Burns
• Burn severity is assessed based on:
• Depth of burn (degree)
• Size of burn (percentage of body surface area – BSA)
• Location of the burn (face, hands, genitals, joints are more serious)
Age and health of the patient
Tools like the Rule of Nines and Lund-Browder chart help estimate burn extent.
First Aid for Burns
Immediate care can minimize damage:
For Minor Burns:
Cool the area with running water (10–15 minutes).
• Apply aloe vera or burn ointment.
• Cover with a sterile gauze.
For Major Burns:
• Do not remove burned clothing stuck to skin.
• Cover with clean cloth or bandage.
• Avoid cold water (risk of hypothermia).
• Seek emergency medical help.
Diet Chart for Burns Patients
Burn patients have increased nutritional needs due to tissue repair and energy loss. A balanced, high-protein and high-calorie diet is essential.
Nutritional Goals:
• Promote wound healing
• Maintain immune function
• Prevent muscle loss
• Support metabolic demand
Recommended Nutrients:
Nutrient Importance Food Sources
• Protein Tissue repair, immune Degrees of Burnssupport Eggs, fish, chicken, milk, pulses, paneer
• Calories Energy for healing Rice, cereals, potatoes, nuts, ghee
• Vitamin C Collagen formation, antioxidant Citrus fruits, guava, tomatoes, bell peppers
• Vitamin A Skin regeneration, immunity Carrots, spinach, sweet potato, eggs
• Zinc Cell repair, immune boost Pumpkin seeds, meat, legumes
• Iron Oxygen transport, healing Red meat, lentils, spinach
• Fluids Prevent dehydration Water, coconut water, soups
Sample Diet Plan:
Meal Menu
• Early Morning Warm water with lemon + soaked almonds
• Breakfast Boiled eggs/paneer + multigrain bread + fruit juice
• Mid-morning Coconut water / seasonal fruits
• Lunch Brown rice/roti + dal + chicken curry + salad
• Evening Snack Protein shake / nuts + fruit
• Dinner Khichdi / soup + steamed veggies + curd
• Bedtime Warm milk with turmeric
Note: Nutritional needs vary based on burn severity and patient condition. Always consult a dietitian.
Treatment of Burns
Burn treatment depends on the type and severity:
1. First-Degree Burns
• Cool compresses
• Over-the-counter pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Moisturizing lotions or aloe vera
2. Second-Degree Burns
• Wound cleaning and dressing
• Topical antibiotics (silver sulfadiazine)
Pain management
Tetanus shot (if needed)
3. Third and Fourth-Degree Burns
• Hospitalization
• IV fluids and electrolytes
• Pain relief and antibiotics
• Debridement (removal of dead tissue)
• Skin grafting or reconstructive surgery
• Physiotherapy (if joints are affected)
• Psychological support
Infection Control
Burn wounds are vulnerable to infection. Preventive measures include:
• Regular dressing changes
• Sterile handling
• Early use of antibiotics if signs of infection
Rehabilitation
• Long-term burn management may involve:
• Scar management (silicone gel, pressure garments)
Physical therapy
• Emotional counseling
• Cosmetic or functional surgeries
Prevention of Burns
Burns can often be avoided by taking simple precautions:
At Home:
• Keep hot liquids and objects away from children
• Install smoke alarms and fire extinguishers
• Avoid overloading electrical circuits
• Use safety guards on stoves
• Store chemicals safely
At Workplace:
• Use protective gear
• Follow safety protocols with machines/chemicals
• Regular fire drills and training
Complications of Burns
• If not properly treated, burns can lead to:
• Infection or sepsis
• Scarring and disfigurement
Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
• Hypothermia
• Respiratory issues (inhalation injury)
• Contractures (tightening of skin and muscles)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How long does it take for a burn to heal?
It depends on the degree:
• First-degree: 3–7 days
• Second-degree: 2–3 weeks
• Third-degree: Several weeks to months (with surgery)
Q2. Should I apply toothpaste or ice on burns?
No. Toothpaste and ice can worsen the burn. Use cool water and a sterile dressing.
Q3. What foods should be avoided in burn recovery?
Avoid spicy, fried, processed foods. Focus on nutrient-dense, hydrating meals.
Q4. Can burn scars be removed completely?
Scars may fade over time with proper treatment, but severe scarring may require cosmetic surgery.
Q5. Are burns life-threatening?
Severe burns, especially involving large areas or vital organs, can be life-threatening and require urgent care.
Conclusion
Burn injuries, though common, can have serious physical and psychological impacts. Proper first aid, medical care, and nutrition are key to a successful recovery. Early intervention, a protein-rich diet, regular wound care, and emotional support are essential for helping burn patients heal and regain quality of life.
Whether it’s a minor scald or a severe electrical injury, understanding the types, degrees, and treatment of burns can make a life-saving difference.
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)