Massachusetts Personal Injury Library
Types of Burn Injuries and Their Treatment (Part B)
Burn Treatments for First Degree Burns
Since these first degree burns are not as serious as other types, these injuries may be treated with over-the-counter products, such as:
- burn creams,
- Aloe Vera gel,
- antibiotic ointment,
- local anesthetic, and
- pain medication such as aspirin or acetaminophen.
Treatments for Second Degree Burns
Second degree burns are a bit more serious and they may require treatment by a doctor. The burn victim can try antibiotic ointments prescribed by a physician or an over-the-counter version. If the wound is not healing, it will require a trip to the doctor.
For pain, victims can take aspirin or acetaminophen. Also, a local anesthetic can be used.
Treatments for Third Degree Burns
This type of burn requires medical treatment. Third degree burns are extremely serious and should be examined as soon as possible by a physician. They may require skin grafting and the use of synthetic skin.
The need for IV antibiotics is almost guaranteed. Third degree burns may require the use of prescribed pain killers to assist with pain management. Additionally, a burn recovery bed may be used.
Treatments for Fourth Degree Burns
Fourth degree burns require immediate medical treatment in order to save the life of the patient. Burn victims will require skin grafting if they survive the burns. Since this type of burn is also the most painful, victims will require prescription pain medication, perhaps through an IV.
Burn Injury Complications
Complications with burn injuries can occur. Complications with first and second degree burns are usually infections at the burn site. Victims can avoid this complication by making sure they carefully clean and care for the burn.
Third degree burn complications are more severe and can include:
- Heart rate and peripheral vascular resistance increase
- Infection
- Tetanus
- Damaged nerves
- Compromised circulation
- Acute tubular necrosis of the kidneys
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Respiratory issues
- Physical deformity
- Psychological and emotional problems due to the burns
Fourth degree burn complications are the most serious and often result in death.
Burn injury victims can have a hard time, not only with the pain, but with the after-effects of their burns. A great resource for victims on the Internet is the Burn Resource Survivor Center.
If you or your loved one has suffered a burn injury, accident, or death, protect your rights by contacting a professional and experienced personal injury lawyer.
The Kiley Law Group will evaluate your case for FREE and there are NO FEES unless one of our Boston personal injury lawyers wins your case.
