Burns To The Foot

Burns can be caused by hot water, chemicals, electricity, radiation, friction, or exposure to a heat such as an oven or fire. If the burn was caused by chemicals or electricity, emergency medical services should be called immediately. A burn can cause redness, blistering, and severe damage to skin and deep tissue. Burns to the feet can be serious and require special care.

The first step to first aid for burns is determining the severity of the burn. Burns are classified as either first, second, or third degree burns. First degree burns are mild burns. They cause redness, swelling, and pain. A first degree burn only affects the outer layer of skin.

First degree burns can be treated at home. Run cool water over a first degree burn for five minutes. After the burned area is cooled with water, pat dry and cover with a sterile bandage. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be taken to treat pain.

Second degree burns affect more layers of skin than just the outer layer. Second degree burns cause pain, redness, swelling, and blistering. If the burn was caused by dropped boiling water, remove the wet shoes and socks.

Third degree burns cause the skin to turn black or white. Because of damage to nerves, it is likely to cause numbness. Third degree burns affect the tissue below the skin. Third degree burns require immediate medical attention. If a third degree burn is suspected, burned clothing should not be removed.

If the toes are burned, separate them with a sterile dressing such as sterile gauze pads. Never apply butter, ice, or oil spray to a burn. A burn to the foot can cause challenges to healing as a shoe is not likely to be able to be worn. Care needs to be taken to prevent friction against the burn.

A burn to the foot should be treated as a major burn. Major burns require immediate medical attention. The burned area can be covered with a sterile dressing while medical attention is sought. If possible, keep the burned area elevated above the level of the heart. The doctor will give instructions for care of the burn.