Accidents happen all the time, and when they do, they can lead to devastating consequences. Whether it is a brain injury, a back injury, or a burn, knowledge of what could happen is critical so you can know what to look for if you are ever in an accident.
Burn injuries can range from mild to severe and the impact a burn has on you and your life depends on its severity. Perhaps you have heard of different degrees of burns: first-degree, second-degree, third-degree, fourth-degree and lastly, chemical burns.
Surface scorch
First-degree burns are the least severe. They affect only the outer layer of the skin and heal rather quickly. A first-degree burn can cause redness and pain, similar to a sunburn, and usually heal by themselves.
Blisters and more
Second-degree burns penetrate the outer layer of the skin and can cause blisters and intense pain. Redness is also a common sign of a second-degree burn. You should seek medical attention immediately if you have any of these symptoms and do not touch the blisters, as that could cause scarring.
Deeper and serious
Third-degree burns are deeper and more serious. These affect deeper skin layers and can reach underlying tissues. These dangerous burns can cause white or blackened, charred skin. Because of nerve damage, you may not immediately feel intense pain, but it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is necessary and often involves skin grafts to aid in the healing process.
Severe and life-threatening
Fourth-degree burns are life-threatening and extend beyond the skin to the muscles, tendons and bones. These burns require immediate medical help and can lead to permanent disfigurement and disabilities. The recovery process for these burns is slow and often involves surgeries and rehabilitation.
Caution with substances
Chemical burns occur when the skin comes into contact with harmful substances or chemicals. The first thing you must do is wash off the chemicals immediately with running water and seek medical help promptly. The severity depends on the type and concentration of the chemical involved.
One thing is certain: prompt care is imperative for any type of burn. The degree of the burn is obviously important, and you should certainly follow common sense and medical advice regarding what to do if you suffer a burn in an accident.