There are three types of burn injuries– first-degree, second-degree, and third degree. Each type brings its own severity and even risk for death.
Depending on the situation, burn injuries can result in a personal injury case. Here is some information on the different types of burn injuries.
First-Degree Burns
Often called “superficial burns” because they generally affect only the outermost layer of skin, first-degree burns cause minimal to mild skin damage.
Common first-degree burn symptoms include:
- Mild pain and inflammation or swelling of the skin.
- Skin redness.
- Dry and peeling skin, generally during the healing process.
Also Read : How Much Can You Receive for a Burn Injury?
Because first-degree burns affect the outermost layer of skin, these symptoms generally disappear once the skin cells heal and shed. Typically, first-degree burns heal at home and symptoms disappear within a week; however, you should always contact your doctor if the burn area covers a large portion of skin or doesn’t show signs of healing.
Second-Degree Burns
Second-degree burns penetrate deeper layers of skin.
As with first-degree burns, second-degree burns often cause pain and inflammation, skin redness, and dry and peeling skin; however, second-degree burns also often cause blisters and the pain and skin tenderness might feel more severe.
Also similar to first-degree burns, second-degree burns can often be treated at home; however, anyone with a second-degree burn that covers a large portion of skin – or is located on the face, hands, buttocks, groin, or feet – should consider consulting his or her doctor.
Third-Degree Burns
Third-degree burns are the most serious. They can penetrate every layer of skin and even bypass the skin to harm the bones, organs, and bloodstream.
Although they’re the worse kinds of burns, third-degree burns aren’t always the most painful. Since they are so severe, they often damage your nerves and ability to sense pain or any feeling.
Third-degree burns can have varying effects on the skin. Some burns might cause the skin to look dark, rough, and leathery, while other burns might give the skin a waxy and white appearance.
Some common causes for third-degree burns include, but aren’t limited to:
- Scalding liquid.
- Hot objects.
- Fire flames.
- Electrical sources.
- Chemical sources.
Third-degree burns can lead to death. Contact 911 immediately after suffering from a third-degree burn.
Are You the Victim of a Burn Injury?
Burns can be caused by everything from car accidents to building fires. If you’ve been the victim of a burn injury, then you might have cause to contact a personal injury attorney to help you receive the compensation you deserve – especially when it comes to covering the necessary medical expenses to care for your burn and recover.
The Florida personal injury attorneys at Fetterman & Associates, PA are here to help you recover all the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost employment wages, and more. Call us at or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today.