Understanding the Effects of Burns

There are many types of injuries that a person can suffer to their body. Some injuries are minor and heal quickly. That is not always the case with burns.

Mild burns may heal within days. However, more severe ones that cover a large portion of the body may take much longer. You may even have to get special treatment, such as skin grafts, to heal.

There are several types of burns:

• Thermal burns. Caused by direct contact with heat sources such as flames, hot liquids (scalds), steam, or hot objects.
• Chemical burns. Result from exposure to strong acids, alkalis, or corrosive substances like bleach, ammonia, or industrial chemicals.
• Electrical burns. Occur when electricity passes through the body, damaging tissues; often seen in workplace or household electrical accidents.
• Radiation burns. Caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays (e.g., sunburn) or radiation therapy.
• Friction burns. Occur when the skin is scraped against a rough surface, like road rash in motorcycle accidents.

Burns can result in costly treatment. It’s important to work with a personal injury lawyer so you can pursue full compensation for the full range of damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, physical pain, emotional distress, scarring, disfigurement, and changes to your life.

Degrees of Burns 

Burns are classified as following:

• First-degree burns. Also known as superficial burns, these burns affect only the outer layer of skin (the epidermis). An example is a mild sunburn. Symptoms include redness, minor swelling, and pain. They usually heal in a few days without scarring.
• Second-degree burns. These partial-thickness burns extend into the dermis (the second layer of skin). An example is a scald from hot liquids. Symptoms include blisters, intense redness, swelling, and severe pain. Healing takes weeks and there may be scarring.
• Third-degree burns. These full-thickness burns are damaging. They destroy the epidermis, dermis, and may reach fat, muscle, or bone. Symptoms include white, blackened, or charred skin. There may not be much pain due to nerve damage. These burns require skin grafts and extensive medical treatment.

Possible Complications

Burn injuries can lead to various complications depending on their severity, treatment, and location on the body. Some common complications include:

• Burns damage the skin’s protective barrier, making wounds susceptible to bacterial infections like cellulitis or life-threatening sepsis.
• Scarring and contractures. Deep burns can lead to excessive scarring and tightening of skin, restricting movement (contractures).
• Dehydration and shock. Severe burns can cause fluid loss, leading to hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition.
• Respiratory issues. Inhalation of smoke or hot gases can damage the airway and lungs, leading to breathing difficulties or pneumonia.
• Nerve damage. Third-degree burns may destroy nerves, leading to numbness or loss of sensation in the affected area.

Contact Us Today

Burns can happen in many ways. Sometimes they are caused by fires due to someone else’s negligence.

Burns can be costly and take a long time to heal. A Mt. Juliet burn injury attorney from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC can help you get the compensation you deserve. Let us help you on the road to recovery. Call (615) 622-6060 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.

Source:

my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12063-burns