Steam burns are a very common occurrence and are the result of the skin being exposed to steam at excessively high temperatures, normally being emitted by boiling water. As soon as the skin suffers a steam burn, you are likely to see a distinct reddening of the skin in the mildest of cases. Depending on the duration and intensity of exposure, the condition can fall into a different classification of burn. The most severe types of steam burns, the third degree variety, will usually penetrate right through the flesh, causing the development of blisters as well as numbness in the affected area. While most people will simply associate steam burns with the skin, it can also affect a persons airwaves – something which is of usually much greater concern, as inhaling steam can cause a significant amount of destruction to the already fragile bronchial tubes. The more severe cases of this scenario could possibly result in death of the victim. True steam, which exceeds temperatures of 212 degrees Fahrenheit and is usually invisible, can pose quite a threat as the affected individual is unlikely to know that there is some significant damage being caused to his or her system until after the condition has already reached an advanced stage.
If the steam burn has caused damage to the lungs or any internal organs, it is essential that the patient be taken to the nearest hospital for emergency treatment. If the burn occurs externally and is of the milder nature, there are a number of home remedy treatment options available that will prove to be as effective. However, the first priority when burnt by steam would be to arrest the intensity of the burn and prevent it from penetrating any deeper into the skin. Running chilled water over the affected area will go a long way into stopping the burn from turning within and causing any further damage. Any damage to the affected layers of the skin will usually heal themselves within a couple of weeks, but make sure that you protect the skin to prevent any infection from penetrating through the already vulnerable area. Another effective option would be to mash an over ripe banana and pour a couple of teaspoons of rose water into it. Leave the mixture on the burn area for a period of about 15 minutes to draw out the pain and heat, thereby allowing it to heal much faster.