Severe burns are one of the most commonly occurring forms of catastrophic injury. But they are not so frequently discussed. In 2016, for example, as many as 486,000 Americans sustained burn injuries requiring medical treatment. While only a portion of this number sustained burns severe enough to have life-altering consequences, this gives you a sense of just how widespread the problem is. But there is a path to recovery for severe burn victims.
Every year, thousands of Americans are hospitalized due to severe burns. Thankfully, there is a path to recovery for severe burn victims.
What Qualifies as a Severe Burn?
All burns are painful, and many require medical treatment. But not all of them can be categorized as a ‘catastrophic injury.’
You have probably heard of the degree system of classifying burns before. Let’s take some time to review it:
- First degree burns. These are the least severe of burn injuries, and they can typically be treated with equipment found in your home or business’ first aid kit.
- Second degree burns. If you sustain a second degree burn, you may require medical intervention. The telltale sign of a second degree burn is blistering and swelling.
- Third degree burns. All catastrophic burn injuries fall into this category. These burns may be painless owing to damage to the nerve endings. The burn may appear black or white, and also exhibit some blistering and swelling.
The most severe category of burn injuries can have life-altering consequences for the victim. At their worst, they may even lead to disfigurement or other severe scarring that causes the victim to feel uncomfortable in public. Then there is the threat of debilitating chronic pain as a result of contracture.
Recovering from Severe Burns
Victims of severe burns have a heavy burden to bear. Thankfully, medical experts are more equipped to respond to these injuries than ever before. One of the greatest consequences of these injuries is not the physical but the psychological pain. Insecurity and shame resulting from scarring and disfigurement can lead not only to intense psychological pain, but also to unemployment and lost income.
In cases such as this, one of the most common forms of treatment is skin grafting. Skin grafting is when undamaged or even synthetic skin is used to cover the burned area. Often, multiple grafts are necessary. In more severe cases, more advanced reconstructive surgery may be the most viable option.
While these treatments are available, they are costly. Affording them can be made even more difficult by lost wages or unemployment. But if your injury was caused by another’s negligence or a defective product, a lawsuit can help to cover these costs.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, for more information and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
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