The pain and agony from a burn, even a small one, can be described as some of the most intense pain imaginable. 

The Mayo Clinic provides an excellent online resource to determining the severity of a burn.  Generally speaking, burns are graded by degree: First, Second, and Third.  The degree of the burn will determine the type of medical care needed.

First-Degree Burns - A first-degree burn is the lease serious burn injury a person can sustain, and is one in which only the outer lawyer of the skin is burned.  This type of burn is usually characterized by redness in the skin, some swelling, and minor pain.  Generally speaking, first-degree burns do not require medical attention unless a substantial portion of the body is affected.

Second-Degree Burns - A second-degree burn occurs when the burn has penetrated below the first layer of skin and into the second layer, which is known as the dermis.  By appearance, a second-degree burn is usually identified by a deep red color in the skin and blistering.  Pain and swelling will also be present.

Per the Mayo Clinic website, if the second-degree burn is no larger than three inches around, it can be treated as a minor burn, and usually can be treated at home.  If it is larger, it is advised to get medical treatment immediately.

Third-Degree Burns - The third-degree burn is the most serious type of burn, and occurs where all layers of the skin are burn, and the damage goes into the tissue.  By appearance, the burned areas may be charred looking, and may look black, or can even look white and dry.  Burns of this degree require immediate medical attention.

An excellent resource from the Mayo Clinic website for burn injuries can be found here.

Walton Law Firm has successfully represented individuals who have suffered burn injuries after an accident. If you have questions about a burn injury matter, please submit your confidential question online, or call Walton Law Firm for a free and private consultation. We can be reached toll free at (866) 607-1325 or locally at (760) 571-5500.