Burn injuries can have long-term ramifications. They can be incredibly painful and you may need extensive treatment, such as skin grafts. Even after healing, burns can lead to the loss of sensation, and they could also cause disfigurement or disabilities.
But not all burn injuries are the same. There are three general categories, according to John Hopkins Medicine, which are listed below.
First-degree burns
These are more superficial burns that just impact the outer layer of your skin, which is known as the epidermis. Your skin may be red and painful, but you shouldn’t have any extensive damage like blisters. An example of a first-degree burn is a mild sunburn.
Second-degree burns
Next, you have burns that reach below the epidermis and into the dermis itself. This is a lower layer of skin, and blistering may occur. These burns also tend to be more painful and you may experience swelling.
Third-degree burns
Finally, there are third-degree burns that entirely destroy the skin. Damage can extend below this outer layer, touching tendons, muscles or even bones. These are very serious injuries, and they often lead to the use of skin grafts because the skin itself has been destroyed. Full healing may not be possible, such as in cases when nerve endings are also permanently ruined.
Rarely, people can experience fourth-degree burns. This just refers to an injury that is so severe that bones, tendons and other organs have also been burned.
Seeking proper compensation
If you have suffered from serious burn injuries, you may have extensive medical costs, lost wages and many other concerns. Take the time to carefully look into your legal options.