Burn injuries fall into three separate categories based on their severity. These three categories include first, second and third-degree.
It is important to understand the differences between these severities, as it may determine how to treat a burn in the future.
First- and second-degree burns
Temple Health discusses the impact and severity of burn injuries. First-degree burns hold the lowest degree of severity and only affect the uppermost layer of dermis. Typically, sunburns fall into this category. The skin may look red and feel tight or painful to the touch, but it does not blister.
Second-degree burns will blister, though. These involve both layers of the dermis. The injured flesh will look and feel much more painful and the victim may experience a limited range of mobility.
Third-degree burns
Third-degree burns have the highest level of severity. These burns will often look black or white instead of red. Victims may not feel pain due to extensive damage to the nerves in the area. These burns extend through all layers of flesh, hence the name “full-thickness burn”. They can even reach down to the bone.
Second-degree burns get classified as severe if they are on the face or take up more than 2 inches in diameter. All third-degree burns no matter the size or location get classified as severe.
Regardless of the type of burn, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can ensure the burn does not get infected and can treat damaged tissue appropriately to stop the injury from worsening. They can also set a victim up with an appropriate plan for recovery, which is a necessity.
