Burn injuries are damage to the skin and underlying layers of the body caused by contact with heat sources or chemicals. The most commonly affected area is the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis, but different types of burn injuries can cause varying damage. To learn more about these injuries and secure skilled representation during your accident case, read on and consult a New Jersey injury lawyer today.
What Are the Different Types of Burn Injuries?
There are several types of burn injuries that can be sustained, depending on the details of the situation and the source of the burn. Below are the most commonly recognized types of burns.
- Thermal: Thermal burns are some of the most common and are caused by heat sources raising the temperature of the skin and tissue. Direct heat sources include flames, hot metals, scalding liquids, and other materials.
- Radiation: Radiation burns result from exposure to both ionizing and nonionizing radiation, like the sun’s UV rays, X-ray machines, and radiation therapy.
- Electrical: Electrical burns are caused by a flow of electricity through the body, like when an individual is struck by lightning or touches exposed wiring. Electrical burns can be external, where the point of contact is, or internal throughout the body.
- Chemical: Chemical burns occur due to contact with harsh chemicals and other substances such as household cleaners, battery acid, paint thinner, etc. These burns can be external, where the substance made contact, or internal if the fumes or substance were ingested.
- Friction: Friction injuries can also be categorized as burns, as they result from the heat friction creates, combined with an abrasion from a rough surface rubbing on the skin.
How is Burn Severity Classified?
The various types of burns can range from minor and relatively harmless to severe and debilitating. The severity of a burn injury is classified into varying degrees depending on the depth of the wound and the symptoms that appear. Consider the following.
- First-degree: First-degree burns are superficial, affecting only the epidermis and resulting in redness, dryness, and some pain. Mild sunburn is an example of a first-degree burn.
- Second-degree: These burns involve damage to the epidermis and parts of the dermis (the underlying layer of skin). Symptoms include redness, swelling, blistering, and moderate to severe pain.
- Third-degree: Third-degree burns destroy both the epidermis and dermis, often leaving the skin white, blackened, or leathery. There is often little to no pain because of damage to the nerves.
- Fourth-degree: Fourth-degree burns are similar to third-degree burns in the sense that all layers of skin are destroyed, but the damage may extend into the muscles, tendons, and bone underneath. Bone or muscle may be exposed, and the skin is generally charred. There is likely no pain due to nerve damage.
The more severe the burn, the more complications arise. Burns can require extensive medical treatment, and complications could even be life-threatening. If you sustained a burn, it is imperative that you seek professional medical advice as soon as possible.
For legal counsel, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney today.
