Heat and your feet
As the summer months approach the topic of sun burns tend to
be popular discussions as people spend more times outdoors. I would like to
discuss burns in general, and the different degree of burns and how they relate
to the foot and ankle.
What are the
different levels of burns and how are they treated?
A burn can be caused by many different factors, such as over
exposure to the sun, a fire, a chemical burn etc. It is the degree of the burn
that will dictate the treatment as well as the outcome.
First Degree Burns
A first degree burn only affects the epidermis, which is the
outer most layer of skin. Symptoms include red painful patches to the area
affected and this can last up to 10 days until the burn resolves. These types
of burns tend to resolve on their own. The most common type of first degree
burn is caused by sunburn and as it is well known that sunscreen can prevent
these types of burns.
Second Degree Burns
A second degree burn penetrates deeper into the epidermis
and the dermal layer of skin. This type of burn can causes extremely painful
blisters, which can become infected and cause a skin infection called
cellulitis. This may take 3-8 weeks to resolve. Sometimes these types of burns
can cause long term scars.
Third Degree Burns
This type of burn penetrates into the epidermis and
throughout the entire dermal layer of skin.
This type of burn can cause the skin to look white, yellow or brown.
Many times this type of burn requires immediate attention at a burn center.
This type of burn can cause severe scaring, require many skin graft surgeries
and perhaps even amputation. These types of burns are highly susceptible to
infection.
Fourth Degree Burns
A fourth degree burn is so severe in many cases it causes
death. This is when the burn extends from the superficial skin to the level of
fat, muscle or bone. Most of the times these burns require amputation as a
treatment option. In addition, these patients are so medically compromised that
infection and death are serious complications.
So how are burns
related to the foot and ankle?
This is an easy answer, with the summer around the corner
many people forget to put sunscreen on their feet. This can lead to painful burns.
In addition, I have treated numerous diabetics who “forgot” a heater was on or
fell asleep in the sun and caused severe 2nd and 3rd
degree burns to the feet.
In conclusion, do not forget to place sunscreen on your legs
and feet. Also if you are a diabetic be careful with the heat and your feet.
For more information, please visit our website at footnj.com
and visit our NEW location at:
3003 English Creek Avenue, Suite C5
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
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