Complex and sometimes life-threatening burn injuries may be caused by a wide range of different accidents. While some burns may be catastrophic, many are complex in nature too—as are the healing and treatment processes. Depending on how much of the body is affected by a burn, the victim may be forced to adapt to a much different way of life either temporarily or permanently as their health is suddenly more fragile and there is a constant risk of infection. Suddenly, it may be difficult to move or complete daily tasks.

Burn types are distinguished by degrees, with first-degree burns impacting the skin; in fact, this could even be something as mild as a sunburn. A second-degree burn affects not only the outside layer of the skin but also a portion of the dermis. It is usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and blistering. The third-degree burn is the most severe, and may affect the outer skin, layers of the dermis, bones, muscles, and tendons. The patient may lose all feeling in the burn area, which in comparison to the redness of a first- or second-degree burn may be white in appearance.

Typical causes for burns are as follows:

• Extreme heat or fire, scalding liquids, steam
• Radiation
• Electrical
• Chemicals

Over 500,000 individuals in the US are treated each year for burns, with tens of thousands requiring hospitalization for further treatment. Children are most commonly seen for burns, and these occurrences are unfortunately—and usually—due to scalding.

Mild burns can usually be treated at home, healing easily. In more serious cases though, patients may require a variety of different medications and dressings for the injuries (plus tetanus shots). Physical therapy may also be required. Third-degree burns may require skin-grafting procedures, as well as plastic surgery.

Sometimes months and even years are required for burns to heal, and beyond that, patients may suffer from severe emotional trauma—made even worse for those who suffer from disfigurement due to their injuries. Antidepressants or antianxiety medication may be required, along with psychotherapy and/or support groups for others suffering from similar conditions. After working with burn specialists, some patients may need to be transferred for care in burn centers or longer term, in nursing homes.

If you have sustained a burn injury due to the negligence of others, contact the attorneys at Heintz Law. We’ve helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation for their damages and medical expenses after accidents. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!

All blogs are written on behalf of Heintz Law for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.