Burns can be painful, but there are several things you can do to alleviate the pain. Here are some tips for treating burn pain:
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Cool the burn: Hold the burned area under cool (not cold) running water or apply a cool, wet compress until the pain eases. Do this for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the pain subsides. Do not use ice, as it can cause further damage to the skin.
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Take over-the-counter pain relievers: If needed, take a nonprescription pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) .
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Apply aloe vera gel or other pain relief gels: Applying moisturizer, aloe vera gel or other pain relief gels may provide temporary relief. Do not apply ointments, toothpaste or butter to the burn, as these may cause an infection. Do not apply topical antibiotics.
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Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage: Cover the burn with a clean, dry gauze or bandage to help protect the area from infection. Do not use cotton balls or other fluffy materials; they can stick to the wound and cause further damage. If blisters form, let them heal on their own while keeping the area covered. Do not pop the blisters.
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Remove tight clothing and jewelry: Remove tight items, such as rings or clothing, from the burned area as quickly as possible. These items can restrict blood flow and worsen swelling.
Its important to note that if the burn is severe, you should seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, if you notice signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or oozing, seek medical attention as well.
