How Can Severe Burns Affect Injury Victims?

 Posted on July 20, 2023 in Burns

Severe burn injuries can have a profound and multifaceted impact on victims, affecting them physically, emotionally, and financially. The consequences of such injuries extend far beyond the initial incident, often leaving lasting scars, both visible and invisible. People who have suffered burn injuries may have legal options, and if someone else was responsible for causing them harm, they can pursue compensation that will address the damages they have suffered. 

Effects of Serious Burn Injuries

There are different degrees of burn injuries. Less serious injuries such as first-degree burns may only affect the top layer of skin, while second- or third-degree burns may affect the lower layers of skin and other underlying tissues. The severity of a burn injury may also depend on the total area of the body that was affected. Burns that occur in major fires or due to exposure to toxic chemicals may cause extensive damage to multiple parts of the body.

Severe burns can affect victims in a variety of ways, including:

• Physical pain and discomfort: Physically, severe burns can cause excruciating pain, and a victim may experience ongoing discomfort that can affect their ability to participate in daily activities. The injured area can become highly sensitive, making even the slightest touch agonizing. The healing process can be long and arduous, with ongoing pain and discomfort persisting for months or even years. Burns may also make it difficult for victims to move or perform daily activities. The loss of mobility and independence can be incredibly challenging and frustrating for a person. 

• Scarring and disfigurement: One of the most visible and enduring effects of severe burns involves the physical scars that are left behind. The skin's natural healing process often leads to the formation of thick, raised scars that can be disfiguring and aesthetically distressing. These scars can serve as a constant reminder of the traumatic event, impacting the victim's self-esteem and body image. The emotional toll of living with visible scars can be significant, leading to self-consciousness, social anxiety, and a sense of isolation. 

• Long-term medical complications: Severe burns may require ongoing medical treatment to address a variety of complications, such as infections, nerve damage, and joint stiffness. This treatment may include surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation, which can be physically and emotionally draining for an injury victim.

• Emotional and psychological trauma: Burn victims frequently experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. The psychological impact of a serious burn injury can be long-lasting, affecting a person’s relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. Coping with the emotional aftermath of a burn injury often requires professional support and therapy to help a person process their trauma and develop healthy coping mechanisms. 

• Financial burden: In addition to the physical and emotional consequences, severe burns can also affect a person financially. The costs of treating burn injuries can be exorbitant, encompassing hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation. Furthermore, burn victims may face long-term or permanent disability, resulting in a loss of income and financial stability. The financial strain can exacerbate the emotional distress and make the recovery process even more challenging. 

• Social isolation: The impact of severe burns may extend beyond the individual, affecting their social interactions and relationships. Self-consciousness about visible scars and disfigurement can lead to social isolation and withdrawal. Other people may react negatively or treat the victim differently due to their appearance, which can lead to feelings of exclusion and loneliness. The loss of social connections and support networks can further compound the emotional and psychological challenges faced by a burn victim. 

Contact Our Winnebago County Burn Injury Attorneys

Severe burns can have far-reaching effects on injury victims, encompassing physical pain, scarring, emotional trauma, financial strain, and social isolation. Access to medical care, including physical and psychological rehabilitation, as well as support from family, friends, and others can play a vital role in helping injury victims navigate the complex journey of recovery and healing. At Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Injury Law, our Rockford severe burn injury lawyers can provide legal representation for people who have suffered these types of injuries, and we work to ensure that they will receive the financial compensation they need to address all of the ways they have been affected. Contact our firm at 815-215-7561 to arrange a free consultation and get legal help with your case.