The Consequences of Burns: Severe Injury Claim in Memphis
Burns can range in severity from minor injuries to catastrophic injuries, causing damage to deep tissues. The actual impact goes beyond the physical. Victims who suffer severe burns may face a future of emotional challenges, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The financial toll can be staggering, with medical and rehabilitation costs, lost income, and long-term care expenses. Medically, burn injuries are classified in the following categories:
- First-degree burns: These are superficial injuries, damaging only the outer layer of skin. First-degree burns may only require basic treatment.
- Second-degree burns: Also called “partial thickness burns,” these injuries involve the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and the dermis (the deeper layers of skin). Second-degree burns can cause redness, blistering, pain, swelling, and visible scarring.
- Third-degree burns: This is the most serious burn classification. Also known as full-thickness burns, third-degree burns can damage underlying muscles, tendons, and bones. Burn sites appear white or charred, with no sensation in the area, as nerve endings are destroyed. These injuries can potentially lead to life-threatening complications, such as shock and life-threatening infections. Third-degree burns require immediate hospitalization and treatment.
