Burn Sensation Loss: Is It Normal After Scalding? - Dermatology

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Experiencing a burn sensation after being scalded by hot water can be concerning, especially when there are areas of the skin that exhibit unusual symptoms. Based on your description, it seems that you have a localized area of redness about the size of a 50-cent coin that does not respond to temperature changes, alongside a general sensation of itching and stinging in the surrounding areas.
First, it's important to understand the nature of burns. Burns are classified into three degrees based on their severity:
1. First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), causing redness, mild swelling, and pain. These typically heal within a few days without scarring.


2. Second-degree burns extend into the second layer of skin (dermis), leading to more intense pain, swelling, and blistering. These burns can take weeks to heal and may result in scarring.

3. Third-degree burns penetrate through all layers of the skin and can damage underlying tissues. They may appear white, charred, or leathery and are often painless due to nerve damage.

From your description, it sounds like you may have sustained a first-degree burn, especially since you mentioned that there are no blisters and the area is only red. However, the fact that you cannot feel temperature in the affected area raises a concern for potential nerve damage or a deeper burn than initially assessed.
The loss of sensation in the area can occur for several reasons:
- Nerve Damage: If the burn is deeper than a superficial burn, it might have affected the nerve endings in that area, leading to a temporary or, in some cases, permanent loss of sensation.


- Inflammatory Response: The body’s inflammatory response to a burn can sometimes lead to altered sensations, including numbness or tingling in the affected area.

- Healing Process: As the skin begins to heal, it can sometimes temporarily lose sensitivity. This can be a normal part of the healing process, but it should be monitored.

Given that you have a specific area that is red and lacks sensation, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare professional can assess the burn's severity and determine if any treatment is necessary. They may recommend keeping the area clean and protected, applying topical treatments to promote healing, or monitoring for signs of infection.

In the meantime, here are some general first-aid measures for burns:
1. Cool the Burn: Continue to run cool (not cold) water over the burn for at least 10-20 minutes. This helps to reduce the temperature of the skin and prevent further damage.

2. Avoid Ice: Do not apply ice directly to the burn, as this can cause further damage to the skin.

3. Cover the Burn: Use a sterile, non-stick bandage to cover the burn to protect it from infection.

4. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.

5. Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye on the burn for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.

In conclusion, while some symptoms you are experiencing may be normal for a burn, the loss of sensation in the affected area is concerning and warrants further evaluation by a medical professional. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to burns and skin injuries.