New Mexico Burn Injury Attorneys

Types of Burn Injuries and Their Impacts

Burn injuries are classified into several categories based on their severity: first-degree, second-degree, third-degree, and fourth-degree burns. Each type affects varying depths of the skin's layers.

First-degree burns are the most superficial injuries, impacting only the outermost layer of the skin known as the epidermis. These burns often manifest as redness, minor swelling, and pain at the affected site but usually do not result in long-term tissue damage. Healing from a first-degree burn typically takes about a week and can be managed with at-home treatments like cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Second-degree burns go deeper, affecting both the epidermis and the upper part of the dermis layer. They present as blisters, severe redness, and can cause an increased level of pain. These burns can lead to scarring and may require more specialized medical attention to prevent infection and assist in the healing process. Recovery time can extend from two to three weeks, and scar management techniques may be needed to minimize long-term impacts.

Third-degree burns are severe injuries that penetrate the full thickness of the skin, destroying both the epidermis and dermis and sometimes affecting underlying tissues like fat, muscle, and bone. These burns often result in a white or charred appearance and can lead to a loss of sensation due to nerve damage. Healing from third-degree burns often necessitates surgical interventions, such as skin grafting, and can require extended periods of rehabilitation. The physical and cosmetic consequences can be permanent, necessitating ongoing treatment and therapy.

Fourth-degree burns are the most extreme, affecting not only all layers of the skin but also underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. They are life-threatening and always require emergency medical care. Recovery is a long, arduous process that typically involves multiple surgeries and can result in lasting disability. The risk of complications, such as infections, blood loss, and shock, is high, making immediate and comprehensive medical care imperative.

No matter the severity of your burn injuries, you should not have to worry about how you will cover medical treatments or lost wages from missed work if the injury was work-related or caused by negligence. Our New Mexico burn injury attorneys can investigate what happened and advise you of your legal options.