Can I swim in a pool with a second degree burn?

By Anonymous August 17, 2016 - 6:09am

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I have a second degree burn on my chest and would like to swim. Does the pool water cause infection?

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Maryann Gromisch RN Guide

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for reaching out to our community with your question.

A second-degree burns involves the epidermis and part of the dermis layer of skin. The burn site appears red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful.

Superficial second-degree burns usually heal in about three weeks, as long as the wound is kept clean and protected. Deep second-degree burns may take longer than three weeks to heal.

Anonymous, are there blisters? Have they popped? Have you been instructed to dress the burn?

I would wait until any popped blisters are no longer raw and have healed. The chlorine in the pool water may act as an irritant on raw blistered skin. I think you should wait.

Regards,
Maryann

August 17, 2016 - 8:44am

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