Burn injuries can vary greatly in their severity. Some may resolve on their own while others scar a victim for life.
Below, our Mississippi personal injury attorneys discuss the differences between first-, second-, and third-degree burns.
The Three Types of Burns
Burns are generally classified into three categories: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree.
- First-degree burns: First-degree burns are also called “superficial burns” because they only affect the top layer of skin. Most first-degree burns will cause redness, swelling, and pain for the injured individual. The vast majority of first-degree burns do not require special treatment.
- Second-degree burns: Second-degree burns, also known as “partial thickness burns,” are more serious. They affect the top and middle layers of the skin. Second-degree burns can take weeks to heal, and often cause blistering and intense pain.
- Third-degree burns: Third-degree burns can be life-threatening. These burns affect all layers of the skin and can sometimes penetrate deeper into glands, nerves, and bone. Third-degree burns require medical attention and may necessitate skin grafts. Those with third-degree burns may experience charred skin and loss of feeling in the affected area(s).
Common Causes of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries can occur whenever the skin comes into contact with an extremely hot surface. The most common causes of burns include:
- Touching a hot pot or another cooking utensil
- Coming into contact with fire or boiling water
- Extreme sunburns
- Workplace accidents involving electrocution or chemical spills
- Auto accidents
Suffering from a Burn Injury? Contact Us Today
More time spent at home during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic means more opportunity to come into hot surfaces while cooking meals. Additionally, many essential workers are still at risk of workplace accidents involving hot materials that can result in a severe burn injury.
If you or someone you love received a severe burn injury due to another’s negligence, our team is here to help.
