Thank you to everyone who has asked how my health is doing now. I'm pleased to report that I seem to have turned the corner now. I went back to the doctor on Friday, concerned about the cough and the chest pain, and it turns out that the pain is mainly due to a damaged muscle, and the cough is slowly clearing up now.
My face is looking superficially good - just very itchy, which the doctor tells me is normal and might last for several months. For those of you interested in the details and prognosis, here's the information given on a patient leaflet about post-burn care:
Length of time for skin to heal
There are three phases in the formation of a scar. In the first phase, which lasts less than a week, the body begins to remove dead and dying skin tissue, fights infection, and sends cells that will begin the healing process to the burned areas. In the second phase, which takes a few weeks, the body makes collagen fibers to form scar tissue and creates tiny new blood vessels in the injured area. In the final phase, which takes months to years, the scar tissue matures, resulting in a stronger scar.
Itching
Itching is a common problem, especially in the first few months after healing. Occasionally it is severe and intractable, interfering with sleep and producing recurrent wound breakdown due to scratching. It is important to try not to scratch. Lukewarm showers, bath oil, colloidal oatmeal products, and moisturisers may help with itching. Sometimes medication such as antihistamines may be needed for persistent disruptive itching.
