Second Degree Burns

Each year, 450,000 burn cases need medical attention, according to the American Burn Association. Sadly, 3,500 people will lose their lives to burn injuries each year.

Burn injuries are broken down into four categories: first degree, second degree, third degree and fourth degree. The least severe burns are classified as first degree and the most severe burns are fourth degree burns.

Second degree burns affect the outer and underlying layers of the skin, the epidermis and the dermis. There are actually two types of second degree burns, which are classified by their depth.

• Superficial partial-thickness burns. These burns injure the first and second layers of the skin. Typically, the skin around the burn will turn white when pressed, and then it turns back to red. The burn is moist and painful with blistering and swelling that usually lasts 48 hours.
• Deep partial-thickness burns. These burns injure the deeper skin layers. After these burns have occurred, the skin looks spotty and remains white when pressed. Patients have to be careful that the burn is properly treated or an infection can develop.

If you or a loved one has sustained a second degree burn due to another person’s negligence, you may have financial and legal recourse. Contact a burn injury lawyer today to explore your legal options.

For additional information about burn injury lawsuits, fill out the Free Case Review form on this   page.

Causes of Second Degree Burns

Second degree burns can be caused by a number of factors. Listed below are some common causes of second degree burns:

• Fire
• Hot liquid or steam
• Electrical currents
• Hot objects such as metal or glass
• Sunlight or ultraviolet light
• Chemicals such as acids or paint thinner

Individuals can sustain burn injuries in auto accidents as well. Typically, these injuries are caused by fuel fed fires.

If you or a loved one has sustained a second degree burn from a motor vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation.

To speak with an experienced Alabama burn injury attorney, fill out the contact form on the right.

Treatments for Second-Degree Burns

The treatment for second degrees burns varies depending on the size and location of the burn. If the burn is less than three inches in diameter you should treat it as a minor burn, the only exception is if the burn is on the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks or over a major joint. Individuals with minor burns should take the following actions:

• Put the burn under cool water for 15 minutes or until the pain subsides. This will reduce the amount of swelling to the burn area. Never put ice on the burn.
• Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage. Make sure that the gauze is wrapped loosely to avoid putting pressure on the skin.
• Take a common over-the counter medication to relieve the pain such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Do not apply ointments to the skin.

However, if an injury victim has a major burn seek medical attention immediately. You should follow the steps below, if a victim has a major second degree burn:

• Call 911.
• Don’t remove burned clothing. However, make sure the victim is not in contact with smoldering materials or exposed to heat.
• Don’t immerse large burns in cold water.
• If the victim is not breathing, perform CPR.
• Elevate the burned parts of the body.
• Cover the burn location with a moist, sterile bandage.

Severe second degree burns will require treatment at a burn center.

Contact a Mobile Burn Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury at the hands of another, contact an experienced burn injury attorney today.  An experienced attorney can determine the merits of your claim and advise you on the best course of action to purse.

The personal injury attorneys at Citrin Law Firm have the knowledge and resources to handle burn injury claims. Citrin Law Firm is dedicated to helping burn victims receive maximum compensation for their injuries.

To schedule a confidential legal consultation, fill out the contact form on this page.