First-Degree Burn Injury

First-degree burns injuries are superficial burns that injure the first layer of skin. First-degree burns are not as serious as second-degree burns or third-degree burns, but first-degree burns can be painful and require medical treatment. Serious friction burns, flash burns, electrical burns, and non-blistering light burning of the skin are all types of first-degree burn injuries. First-degree burns do not usually cause damage to the skin long-term, though they can cause discoloration of the skin and can increase the risk of developing skin cancer if acquired via the sun. Some first-degree burns cause facial discoloration that can have a cosmetic effect on the burn victim’s face.

When a person’s negligence caused your first-degree burns, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. At Arnold & Smith, PLLC our lawyers have the experience necessary to skillfully represent you in your personal injury lawsuit. Contact our burn injury law firm today to schedule your free, initial consultation.

First-degree burns are a painful and common occurrence. Children aged 4 years or younger are often the victims of scalding burns. Hot liquids can spill from the stove or hot cups of coffee or tea and cause scalding burns to the body. Additionally, the steam that comes out of a container or pot can cause scalding burns. Elderly individuals, disabled individuals, and children can also be the victims of scalding from bathing or showering in water that is too hot.

Most hot water heater manufacturers do not allow a customer to set the tank heat to over 140 degrees Fahrenheit, though this is still easily hot enough to cause burns, especially to individuals with more sensitive skin. When a caregiver negligently allows a child to suffer first-degree burns or a hot water heater manufacturer creates a defective product, you may be entitled to compensation for your first-degree burn injuries. A caregiver has the responsibility to use reasonable care when taking care of a child. If you or your child suffered a scalding first-degree burn injury caused by another person’s recklessness or negligence, you may be entitled to damages.

Most first-degree burns show up as dry, red patches of skin. In most cases, first-degree burns do not cause the skin to break. Blisters do not usually form on a first-degree burn. Other symptoms of a first-degree burn include the following:

• Soreness in the burned area, which can last for two or more days
• Swelling
• Peeling
• Itching
• Pain
• A change in skin color
• Skin that is overheated and warm to the touch

Medical professionals treat first-degree burns based on the symptoms of the patient’s burns. Doctors consider the following factors when determining how to treat the first-degree burn:

• The victim’s age, medical history, and overall health
• The extent of the burn
• The cause of the burn
• The location of the burn
• The victim’s pain tolerance

In many cases, a superficial first-degree burn will heal on its own within a week. Treatment of a first-degree burn usually involves applying ointments or lotion, applying a cold compress, or using over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Most first-degree burns do not need a bandage during treatment.

First-degree burns caused by electricity often develop underneath the top layers of skin. Thus, even if you do not think your burn is serious, it can still be a wise idea to seek assessment and advice from a medical professional. Medical professionals have a duty to offer reasonable and safe medical advice for the treatment of your burn injury. Applying a cold compress that is too cold can cause more damage to your burn injury. Also, applying oil or butter to a burn as some mistakenly recommend can cause the injury to become worse as it traps the heat of the burn on the skin.

When your first-degree burn happened due to the negligent actions of others, it is wise to at least discuss the burn accident with a skilled personal injury lawyer. At Arnold & Smith, PLLC we listen carefully to our clients’ stories and investigate their accidents thoroughly. We can help you find a doctor who will offer a comprehensive medical examination to determine the exact extent of your injuries. Our lawyers fight hard on behalf of our clients to receive financial compensation for their first-degree burn injuries. Contact our law firm today to schedule your initial consultation.