Articles
Burns: First aid
Is it a minor burn or a major burn?
Content
Is it a major or minor burn?
Treating major burns
Treating minor burns
When to seek emergency help
Treatment
Overview
When to get emergency help
Major burns
Minor burns
What to avoid
When to call your doctor
Content
Is it a major or minor burn?
Treating major burns
Treating minor burns
When to seek emergency help
Treatment
Overview
When to get emergency help
Major burns
Minor burns
What to avoid
When to call your doctor
When to get emergency help
Call 911 or your local emergency services or go to the emergency room if a burn:
- Goes through all layers of skin.
- Makes the skin look dry or leathery.
- Makes the skin look charred, or has white, brown or black patches.
- Is larger than 3 inches (about 8 centimeters) across.
- Affects the face, hands, feet, genitals, buttocks or major joints, such as the knees, shoulders or elbows.
- Wraps around an arm or a leg.
- Happens along with smoke inhalation.
- Starts swelling very fast.
Get emergency medical help for burns caused by electricity, lightning or strong chemicals. Even a minor burn may need medical attention if it affects the eyes, mouth, hands or genitals. Babies and older adults might need emergency care for minor burns as well.
