Burn Injury Lawyers
Burn injuries are extremely painful, and
can be difficult to treat and slow to heal. Burns are the fourth
most common cause of injuries worldwide,
ranking after traffic accidents, falls, and interpersonal violence. Pediatric
burns happen more often in the home, while adults are equally likely to suffer
burn injuries in the home, at work, or outdoors. Coping with severe burns can
be very difficult, as burns often require long periods of rehabilitation, and
can affect mobility and appearance. If you have suffered burns in an accident,
call a burn injury lawyer. These legal professionals can advise you as to
whether you are eligible for insurance benefits or other types of financial
compensation. Claiming insurance benefits can be difficult for anyone who isn’t
experienced at it, and there are numerous timing requirements that need to be
met in order to go forward. Consequently, it’s best to contact a personal
injury lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.
Dealing with Burns
There are three classifications of burns:
· First-degree burns. These minor burns affect the epidermis, or outer layer of the
skin. They cause redness and swelling, and usually resolve with the help of
minor first aid within a week.
· Second-degree burns. A
second-degree burn affects both the epidermis and the dermis below. These burns
may cause red, white or blotchy skin, as well as swelling. The skin may
blister, and the wound can look wet. The pain can be severe, and the burns can
cause scarring.
· Third-degree burns. A
third-degree burn affects epidermis and dermis and also the fat layer under the
skin. Burns may appear waxy, and may be charred black or white. Other symptoms
may include numbness due to damaged nerves, or difficulty breathing.
Treatment of burns can include a
number of different approaches, such as; water based treatments like ultrasound mist therapy, IV fluids to
prevent organ failure due to dehydration, pain medications such as morphine,
topical creams and ointments to prevent infection and speed healing. If an infection
develops, you may also need IV antibiotics to help to fight it. Your doctor may
also prescribe anti-anxiety medication.
After the initial treatments, you may need physical
therapy to help stretch the skin. Occupational therapy can help you to regain
the ability to do daily tasks.
If your burns are serious enough, you may require
surgery. Burns in the area of the throat may require surgical intervention to
install a breathing tube. In order to get enough nutrition, you may need a
feeding tube. If scabs get too large, they can inhibit your ability to move,
and may need to be surgically trimmed. Skin grafts may be used to replace scar
tissue, and reconstructive surgery can be an option for improving the
appearance of scarred tissue.
Getting
Help
While recovering from burn injuries you may need help
with daily tasks that may include housekeeping and/or home maintenance, or
medical procedures such as changing dressings. If you have to hire attendant
care, your insurance company benefits may be able to provide you with funds to
offset the cost. Contact a firm with burn injury lawyers to handle your claims,
and to advise you on your options for financial compensation.