A matter of degree

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Distinguishing a minor burn from a more serious burn involves determining the degree of damage to the tissues of the body. The following three classifications will help us determine your response: *FIRST-DEGREE. The skin is usually reddened, and there may be swelling and pain. The outer layer of the skin, however, hasn't been burned through. Unless such a burn involves substantial portions of the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks, or a major joint, or you're having difficulty breathing, it may be treated as a minor burn with self-care remedies. Chemical burns may require different care. *SECOND-DEGREE. This refers to burns in which both the epidermis and the second layer of the skin (dermis) are burned. Blisters may develop, and the skin takes on an intensely reddened appearance and becomes splotchy. Severe pain and swelling are accompanying symptoms. If second-degree burn is limited to an area no larger than two to three inches in diameter, it can be treated in the same ways as a first-degree burn. He it's larger, however, if you're experiencing difficulty breathing or if the burn is on the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks, or over a joint, it's considered a more substantial burn warranting emergency medical care. *THIRD-DEGREE. This refers to burns that involve both layers of the skin-the epidermis and the dermis-and even the tissue under the skin (subcutaneous tissue). Fat, nerves, muscles, and even bones may also be affected. There are usually areas that are charred black or appear as dry white. There may be severe pain or, if nerve damage is substantial, no pain at all. Call for emergency medical case immediately.