Third degree burns: Causes, symptoms, and treatment – Medical News Today

Third degree burns, or full-thickness burns, are a type of burn that destroys the skin and may damage the underlying tissue. They are more severe than first or second degree burns and always require skin grafts.

Third degree burns are a serious injury requiring immediate medical help. Unlike less severe burns, which can be very painful, full-thickness burns may not hurt. This is because the burn may damage nerve endings in the skin responsible for sensing pain.

In addition, the burn site may appear

A person with a third degree burn will require hospitalization. Treatment will vary depending on the extent, severity, and location of the burn.

If an individual suspects they have a third degree burn, they should seek immediate medical attention. Without treatment, these burns and resulting complications can be fatal.

In this article, learn more about third degree burns, including the symptoms, treatment, and when to speak with a doctor.

Third degree burns are a severe type of burn that extends through every layer of skin. This type of burn can destroy:

Doctors categorize burns according to the damage they cause to the skin and surrounding tissue. Types of burns include:

Third degree burns will typically result from contact or exposure to the following:

Any severe burn will typically be apparent and will require treatment at the hospital.

Common symptoms of full-thickness burns may lead to:

Severe burns can also result in potentially fatal complications. For example, the body may go into shock.

Normally, the body produces an inflammatory response to protect itself from injury, infection, or other threats. However, in some cases, such as with severe burns, the body may overreact, and the inflammatory response may cause more harm.

Shock typically causes damage because the extreme inflammatory response results in tissues and organs not receiving enough oxygen. Several organs, such as the lungs, heart, and brain, are particularly susceptible to damage by burn shock.

Infection is another major concern with third degree burns. The severe damage to the skin makes the body more susceptible to pathogens.

Burns can also weaken the immune system, meaning the body is less capable of fighting off infection. In particular, acquiring pneumonia and sepsis infections are common and potentially fatal complications.

A doctor can usually diagnose the severity of a burn by examining the affected area. They may also ask questions about the cause of the burn, any other injuries, and whether the person has any other medical conditions.

The doctor may determine the severity of the burn by accounting for:

A doctor may classify a severe burn under the following criteria:

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), any third degree burn requires immediate hospitalization and treatment. Individuals with this type of burn usually receive treatment at a special burn unit.

Following a third degree burn, people should immediately try to arrange medical assistance.

While waiting for emergency care, a person can ensure an individual with a third degree burn:

People can also cover the area with a sterile bandage, attempt to separate fingers and toes if burned, and, if possible, elevate the burned area above the heart.

The treatment a person receives will depend on the extent, severity, and location of the burn. The cause of the burn and a persons health will also determine which treatment they receive.

Treatment for third degree burns may include:

Third degree burns are serious and require immediate medical attention. Without treatment, they can be fatal. The WHO estimate that burns cause roughly 180,000 deaths every year, while non-fatal burn injuries are a leading cause of morbidity.

Children and older adults are particularly at risk. Research suggests that after car accidents and drowning, burns are the most frequent cause of childhood death.

The American Burn Association provide resources allowing people to search for their nearest burn center in the United States.

Treatment for third degree burns continues after a person leaves the hospital. While the recovery period differs for everyone, people commonly report feeling pain, fatigue, and itching.

People will still require wound care, which involves cleansing and dressing the wounds. This may require a nurse or doctor, or for the person with burns to learn how to clean and dress wounds. A friend or family member could also assist.

Individuals may require rehabilitation and counseling to help with their ability to perform daily tasks, with any potential issues communicating, and improve their mental health.

The healing time of a burn injury depends on the:

Due to medical advances, people are now capable of recovering from burn injuries that were previously fatal. However, individuals will often have permanent impairments and scarring.

Third degree burns are deep, severe burns that completely damage the skin. Causes can include exposure to flames, explosions, or strong chemicals.

People with third degree burns need immediate medical attention from a special burn unit. This can help prevent serious complications such as infection or shock.

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Third degree burns: Causes, symptoms, and treatment - Medical News Today