What's an at-home remedy for a burn? - East Idaho News
ASK THE DOCTOR

What’s an at-home remedy for a burn?

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Have a medical-related question you've always wanted answered? The doctors at Mountain View Hospital and Idaho Falls Community Hospital are here to help! Email your "Ask the Doctor" questions to news@eastidahonews.com and they might end up in our weekly column.

Q: What can I do at home to treat a burn?

For immediate treatment of a burn at home, the first step is to stop the burning process. This can be done by removing the person from the source of the burn (such as hot water, flames, or chemicals). Then, run cool (not cold) water over the burn area for 10 to 20 minutes to help reduce heat, pain, and swelling. If running water isn’t available, use a clean cloth soaked in cool water. Avoid using ice, as it can damage the skin further. After cooling, cover the burn with a sterile bandage or clean cloth to protect the area. If the burn is severe or blisters form, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. For smaller burns, over-the-counter pain relievers may help with discomfort.

Q: Are burns are more likely to occur during a specific time of year?

Burns can happen year-round, but certain situations or activities may increase the risk during different seasons. In warmer months, burns can occur more frequently from outdoor activities such as barbecues, campfires, and handling hot objects or cooking oil. During colder months, burns are often linked to heating sources like wood-burning stoves, space heaters, and hot water bottles. Scalds from hot drinks or steam can also increase during the winter as people tend to drink more hot beverages. It’s important to stay vigilant and practice safety measures throughout the year to prevent burns.

Q: What is the most important thing to know about burns?

Prevention goes a long way. Simple precautions, such as keeping hot objects out of reach of children, being careful around open flames, and ensuring home heating systems are properly maintained, can significantly reduce the risk of burns. Additionally, it’s crucial to seek appropriate medical care if you suffer a serious burn, as even seemingly minor burns can lead to serious health complications if not treated properly.

Phil Hesse, a dedicated provider at our wound care unit, is passionate about supporting his patients and is committed to educating them on the best practices for burn care.

This column does not establish a provider/patient relationship and is for general informational purposes only. This column is not a substitute for consulting with a physician or other health care provider.

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