holding hands with a hospital patient

The Road to Recovery After a Catastrophic Burn Injury

Any catastrophic injury can be devastating, but a catastrophic burn injury may be even more so because the physical scars remain long after the accident has ended. Catastrophic burn injuries are often the most severe degree of a burn injury (third-degree) and can take months or even years for a victim to return to a semblance of a normal life.

What Makes a Burn Injury “Catastrophic”?

Burn injuries are categorized into three degrees: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree. The three degrees are characterized by the following symptoms:

  • First-degree burns: The burn site is red, painful, dry, and with no blisters.
  • Second-degree burns: The burn site appears red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful.
  • Third-degree burns: The burn site appears white or charred and there is no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.

Virtually all catastrophic burns are third-degree burns. Those who suffer from a third-degree burn often face a long road to recovery. The recovery process may involve the following treatments:

  • Skin grafts to cover large wounds
  • Physical therapy to relearn how to use damaged parts of the body
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy to deal with post-traumatic stress from the incident

Seeking Justice After Suffering a Catastrophic Burn Injury

Catastrophic burn injuries can occur after prolonged contact with open flames. Such an incident may result from improperly installed, heat-producing appliances including stoves, ovens, heaters, and more. If you or someone you love sustained a severe burn injury due to an improperly installed appliance, our Los Angeles product liability attorneys can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Call Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation at (866) 884-1717 to schedule a free consultation.

Categories