People can acquire burns through house fires, workplace accidents and automobile accidents, among other things. As with any injury, getting prompt treatment for burns helps ensure that the patient recovers as well as they possibly can. There are both long-term and short-term health effects of burns that people in Connecticut and around the United States should be aware of.
Three of the more common types of burns are first-degree, second-degree and third-degree burns, which vary greatly in their severity. Here are a few of the health impacts of severe burns.
Greater risk of infection
The skin is a large organ that protects the inside of the body from germs and other hazards in the world outside of the body. When someone sustains a severe burn, it compromises this protective layer, leaving the burn survivor susceptible to infections even after the burn heals. Once healed, wearing bandages and other protective layers on and around the burn site is often a good idea.
Pain and itchiness
A person can also experience pain and itchiness after a burn which, while not necessarily life-threatening, can be a source of great discomfort.
Immune system deterioration
Severe burns also impact the immune system. This is especially the case while the burns heal since the immune system will be more focused on healing the burn areas than fighting off colds, flu and other illnesses.
By being aware of the long-term and short-term health impacts of burns, a burn victim can advocate for their treatment and recovery throughout the process.