What degree is my burn?
Body
A burn is tissue damage to the skin layer(s) that can be caused by natural and chemical substances. MedlinePlus provides condition information concerning the types of burns that range from 1 to 6 degrees.
https://medlineplus.gov/burns.html
Types of burns include:
- First-degree burns damage the outer layer (epidermis) of the skin. These burns usually heal on their own within a week. A common example is a sunburn.
- Second-degree burns damage not only the outer layer but also the layer beneath it (dermis). These burns might need a skin graft—natural or artificial skin to cover and protect the body while it heals—and they may leave a scar.
- Third-degree burns damage or completely destroy both layers of skin including hair follicles and sweat glands and damage underlying tissues. These burns always require skin grafts.
- Fourth degree burns extend into fat, fifth degree burns into muscle, and sixth degree burns to bone.
Resources and Support
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MSKTC – Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center | https://msktc.org/burn/burn-resources
One of the most comprehensive resources for burn injury patients, MSKTC offers factsheets, slideshows, videos and hot topic areas that cover all aspects of recovery and support for living with a burn injury. Some topic areas include employment, socializing, and exercise following a burn injury. You might also be interested in scar management and massage.
Phone: 202-403-5600 TTY: 877-334-3499 Email: msktc@air.org
American Burn Association
Dedicated to promoting and supporting burn-related research, education, rehab and prevention of burns.
https://ameriburn.org/ Chicago: 312-642-9260
Burn Institute
Join others in support and community in physical retreat or online groups for all ages.
https://burninstitute.org/ 858-541-2277
Illinois Fire Safety Alliance
The Illinois Fire and Safety Alliance is dedicated to fire safety, burn prevention, and support to burn survivors and their families.
https://www.ifsa.org/
847-390-0911
Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors
Serving burn survivors and their community of care around the world. Join an online community of peer support, or explore educational opportunities, and help others like you by sharing your story.
https://www.phoenix-society.org/open-mic-submission
https://www.phoenix-society.org/
info@phoenix-society.org
800-888-2976 616-458-2773
Additional Resources
Managing Your Pain | Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (sralab.org)
https://www.sralab.org/lifecenter/resources/Managing-Pain
Reference:
National Institute of Medical Health Sciences. Burns. 2021. Accessed from: Burns (nih.gov)
This content is for informational purposes only and may not be comprehensive. Information contained does not imply an endorsement from Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and does not replace the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. See here for further details.
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