Põletus

Põletus is a medical term in Estonian that refers to tissue damage caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. It is commonly called a burn; in Estonian clinical use, põletus covers varying severity from superficial to full-thickness injuries.

Burns are described by depth: first-degree (superficial, red, painful), second-degree (partial thickness with blisters), third-degree (full thickness, pale or charred, numb). Mixed-depth injuries are common and may involve more than one tissue layer.

Causes include thermal injuries from hot liquids or steam, chemical burns from acids or alkalis, electrical burns, and radiation burns such as severe sunburn or exposure to radiation sources. Age, health status, and the size and location of the burn influence risk and management.

First aid involves removing the source of injury, cooling the area with running water for 10–20 minutes, and avoiding ice. Remove jewelry before swelling begins. Cover the burn with a clean, nonadherent dressing. Do not break blisters. Seek medical attention for burns that are large, deep, or involve the face, hands, feet, genitals, or joints, or in children and older adults. Tetanus prophylaxis may be advised.

Medical management includes wound cleaning, debridement, and dressings, along with analgesia. Large or deep burns may require fluid resuscitation and specialized care in burn units. Depending on depth and extent, skin grafting and rehabilitation to prevent contractures may be necessary. Infection prevention is a key concern in all burns.

Prevention focuses on safety with hot liquids, fire prevention, proper handling of chemicals, and sun protection. Most mild burns heal with minimal scarring, but more extensive injuries carry a higher risk of complications.