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Burn Injury

The severity of a burn corresponds with how deep it penetrates the layers of skin. Since there are three layers of skin, burns are classified into three distinct categories:

First degree burn

Also known as a thin or superficial burn, this is the mildest type of burn and only affects the epidermis (outer layer of skin). The site of the burn is painful to the touch and looks red, dry, and free of blisters. It is also a bit swollen and turns white when pressed. After one or two days, the skin above the burn may fall off. A minor sunburn is a common version of a first degree burn.

Second degree burn

Also known as a superficial partial-thickness or deep partial thickness burn, a second degree burn infiltrates the epidermis and reaches the dermis (layer under the epidermis). The burnt region is extremely sore, red, and blistered. In some cases, it may be swollen as well.

Third degree burn

Also known as a full-thickness burn, this type of burn damages or completely destroys all three layers of skin including the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer. Muscles, tendons, and bones lying beneath the subcutaneous layer could also be harmed. Damaged skin appears to be white or charred and black. The victim may feel little or no pain at the site of burn due to the destruction of nerve endings.

Burns are usually broken down further into three more classifications: minor, moderate, and severe. To make a diagnosis using these categories, a doctor needs to estimate the percentage of the body's surface that has suffered burn injury. Making an approximation of the total burn area is essential because it allows them to forecast the efficiency by which the burn injury will heal and calculate the probability of complications. Charts help doctors conclude what fraction of the body has been burned. For instance, and adult arm makes up about nine percent of the total body.

Symptoms
Common burn symptoms include:

  • Blisters
  • Soreness
  • Red skin
  • Peeling skin
  • White or charred skin
  • Inflammation

Severe burn victims may also go into shock, a condition which can be life-threatening. Shock can be the result of dehydration (fluid escaping through open wounds) and/or limited blood flow. Symptoms of shock include:

  • Pastiness (no color in cheeks)
  • Damp skin
  • Loss of strength
  • Cyanosis (blue-colored fingernails or lips)
  • Inattentiveness