Stress causes the release of a hormone called cortisol. Giving rats daily injections of corticosterone (rat cortisol) for several weeks kills certain brain cells. Stressing the rats each day for the same amount of time has an identical effect.
As soon as possible after the burn or scald, ideally within 20 minutes, cool the area of the burn using cool or lukewarm water for 10 minutes to half an hour. Do not use ice, ice water, creams, greases or butter, which can cause further damage. Butter and oils actually retain heat rather than helping to remove it.
Following a burn or scald, make sure you and the affected person are safe from further burns or danger - then cool a burnt or scalded area immediately with water (preferably running cool water - not cold) for at least 20 minutes. This leaflet also gives further advice.