Burn injuries are almost always in need of a medical check. However, burn injury treatment will differ based on several factors. On top of that, severity can vary wildly depending on the source of the burn or incident leading to it.
Burn injuries typically fall into one of three classifications accordingly: first, second and third-degree burns.
First-degree mild burns
Temple Health talks about the severity of different burn injuries. First-degree burns count as the least severe. If someone has ever experienced a sunburn that turned red and later peeled, but did not blister, this was a first-degree burn. Brief scalding from extremely hot water may also cause a first-degree burn.
These burns require little additional care beyond pain management and perhaps a cursory look by a doctor. They will heal in due time with few if any lasting effects.
Serious second and third-degree burns
Second-degree burns come after, which can include sunburns that blister. These are more severe, though a second-degree burn does not classify as a severe injury unless it is on the face or larger than 2 to 3 inches.
Anyone with a second-degree burn should seek medical attention, as they can prescribe the appropriate methods of caring for these burns at home and can give any necessary medications, procedures or pain relievers.
Third-degree burns are always severe injuries no matter how large or where they are. These require immediate medical intervention and often require extensive medical care such as skin grafts. They may result in permanent issues like nerve pain or limited range of mobility.