Põletuse

Põletuse is the Estonian term for a burn, an injury to the skin or deeper tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. Burns range from minor to life‑threatening and are commonly classified by depth and surface area.

Causes include thermal sources such as hot liquids, steam, and flames; chemical agents like acids or alkalis; electrical currents; and radiation from sun exposure or medical treatment. Depth categories describe how deeply the injury penetrates the skin: first-degree burns affect only the outer layer (red, painful but usually dry); second-degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis (blisters and marked pain); third-degree burns destroy both skin layers and may reach underlying tissues (often less painful due to nerve damage).

Assessment considers the burn’s depth and the total body surface area (TBSA) involved, as well as location. Burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals, over joints, or extensive burns require careful medical evaluation. Young children and older adults are at higher risk for complications.

First aid and treatment: minor burns are typically cooled with lukewarm running water for 10–20 minutes; avoid ice and ointments unless advised. Remove restrictive jewelry before swelling begins and loosely cover with a sterile nonstick dressing. Do not pop blisters. Chemical burns require prolonged irrigation with water (at least 20 minutes). Seek medical care for most moderate to severe burns, burns larger than a few centimeters, signs of infection, or any concerns about inhalation injury or dehydration.

Prevention focuses on safe handling of hot substances, use of protective equipment, and sun protection to reduce radiation burns.