Although minor changes in color may occur as part of the healing process, greenish or purplish discolorations, especially if accompanied by pain and swelling, should be checked out by your doctor to rule out infection.
The pus or discharge can come from broken skin around the burn, or it might come from broken blisters.
Additionally, you might notice a smelly discharge.
A fever by itself may not mean your burn is infected. However, it’s best to see your doctor just in case.
Do not try to break or pop a blister. This will not help it heal faster. Instead, you’ll increase your risk of an infection. [9] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Sepsis is a common risk after you experience a burn. It can quickly worsen and enter your bloodstream, where it can damage your organs. With immediate medical treatment, however, you can recover. [11] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
If you suspect your burn is infected, don’t hesitate to get treatment. Sepsis can quickly become serious and requires immediate treatment, so don’t risk your health. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
The doctor can take swabs of pus or discharge, but they can swab even if none is present.
For a large burn, the doctor will likely take a 1 centimeter (0. 39 in) biopsy. In some cases, they may take more than 1 biopsy from different parts of the burn. For a smaller burn, they make take a 3 mm punch biopsy. The doctor may decide to take biopsies every few days or once a week until the burn is properly healing.
During this period, the doctor may swab your burn wound often. Depending on the severity of the wound, they may swab it daily or weekly as the burn heals.
If you’re treating the burn at home, the doctor will likely prescribe oral or cream antibiotics. If you’re in the hospital, you’ll likely be given antibiotics through an IV. [18] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Follow all of your doctor’s instructions for using the burn cream. Aloe can also be a good treatment for your burn, especially if it’s a small burn. However, check with your doctor before you use it.
Always use sterile bandages, such as a non-stick gauze secured with medical tape. Don’t use reusable bandages. You can apply your burn cream before you replace your bandages. If your burn is serious, painful, or out of reach, get someone to help you change your bandages. If you’re being treated in a hospital, the nurses will change your bandages.
Don’t take anything without first talking to your doctor, especially if you’re taking other medications.
Don’t use painkillers without your doctor’s permission, especially if you’re taking other medications. Painkillers can be very addictive, so always use them exactly as your doctor directs. In some cases, you might use the painkillers specifically when changing your bandages.
Take your medication as directed. Anxiety medications have side effects. Common side effects include nausea, increased saliva, blurred vision, headache, tiredness, joint or muscle pain, dizziness, nightmares, lack of coordination, cognitive issues, confusion, frequent urination, or sexual issues. You may also become dependent on them. [24] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Mental Health Informational website from U. S. government focused on the understanding and treatment of mental illness. Go to source
Doctors recommend getting a tetanus booster every 5 years. [26] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Ask your doctor if getting the booster is right for you. In some cases, you can expect to receive the Tdap vaccine after a burn. It’s approved by the CDC for use by people aged 65 and over.
