Burns in children

Children, due to their inquisitive and curious nature, are more prone to accidental burns. Due to their smaller body size, younger children can suffer larger and more serious burn injuries than teenagers and adults.

 Did you know?

According to the World Health Organization;

• Nearly 75% of burns in young children are from liquid, hot tap water, or steam. 

Another 20% are considered "contact" burns from touching a hot object like a 

clothes iron or other electric appliances.

• In India, over 1 million people are moderately or severely burnt every year.

• Burns occur mainly in the home and workplace.

• Burns are preventable.

There are many ways children can get burnt and sustain serious injuries and permanent skin scarring. The best way to treat a burn is obviously to prevent it from happening. 

Your child can get burnt by:

1. Hot water or hot beverages

2. Hot stove

3. Fire, fireworks, matches & lighters

4. Electric wires and appliances

5. Sunburns due to exposure to sun for longer time, especially in summers

6. Chemical burns – household chemicals with ammonia, acid or bleach

First aid steps in burn injuries:

1. Run cool water over the burn for at least 15-20 minutes. Avoid applying ice over the burn – it delays healing.

2. Do not rub the burn area – it may cause pain and blisters.

3. Cool any burning clothing with cool water and then remove it from the burned area if it is not firmly stuck to the skin. If it is stuck to the skin, then cut off only the loose clothing.

4. If the injured burn area is dry and not bleeding or oozing, cover it with sterile gauze pads if you have, else use clean towel or cloth to cover it.

5. If the burned area is oozing / bleeding then cover it lightly with sterile gauze pads if you have, else use clean towel or cloth to cover it and immediately seek medical attention.

Caution!

1. Avoid household remedies for burns like – applying any powder, grease, ghee or butter. They can worsen the burn injuries.

2. Remember - all electrical burns and burns of the hands, mouth, or genital areas should receive immediate medical attention.

Hospitalization of your child may be necessary if:

1. The burns are deep (third degree) and painful.

2. More than 10% of the body is burned.

3. Burns of the face, hands, feet, genitals or moving joints of the body.

4. Your child is very young or fussy, and therefore very difficult to treat at home, with 

burns less than 10% of the body area.

Conclusion

Burn injuries in children are common but largely preventable with proper supervision and safety measures. Understanding the common causes of burns, knowing the right first aid steps, and seeking timely medical care can help reduce complications and support faster recovery. If a burn injury occurs, prompt and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in healing and long-term outcomes.

Why Choose Ankura Hospital for Burn Care in Children?

At Ankura Hospital, we understand that burn injuries can be frightening for both children and parents. Our expert team is equipped to provide prompt assessment, emergency care, pain management, wound care, and ongoing support for pediatric burn injuries. We focus on minimizing complications, promoting faster healing, and ensuring the comfort and well-being of every child. With child-friendly facilities and comprehensive pediatric services, Ankura Hospital is committed to delivering compassionate and specialized care when your child needs it the most.