How to Recover From Treatment of a Third-Degree Burn

Recovery can be slow and challenging, especially if third-degree burns occur on the face or genitals, or cover more than 10 percent of the body. Every system in the body plays a role in healing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Cocoa Butter
• Aspirins
• Elastic Bandages
• Mild Soap

1. Get lots of rest. The body is under stress, and some people have difficulty sleeping through the night because of nightmares. Frequent catnaps, especially after dressing changes, will help the body heal.
2. Take pain relievers as directed by your doctor.
3. Apply cocoa butter or other creams, as ordered by your doctor, to the skin around your wounds to promote healing by lubricating and softening the stretched skin.
4. Use mild soap for bathing. Pat skin dry with a towel afterward.
5. Keep your house cool to minimize itchiness.
6. Change your dressings, following your doctor's exact instructions. You may have to wear elastic bandages over burned areas prone to scarring.
7. Build up your tolerance for exercise. After a severe burn injury, your body will be weak. Exercise will greatly improve your health and stamina, but you must begin gradually.
8. Consult a physical therapist, who can prescribe range-of-motion exercises for you to practice if the burn injury is over or around a joint. If you don't use a joint, it can stiffen and be painful to use.
9. Drink lots of water to help repair injured skin.
10. Find an online support group and talk to other burn victims for emotional support and additional education.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find yourself feeling depressed after you are discharged from the hospital, consult a professional counselor. It is not unusual to grieve or be unable to cope with the changes in self-image and body appearance.
• Talk with a plastic surgeon, or get a second opinion, if you'd like to have some cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.