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Burns are one of the worst injuries the human body can endure. They are not only painful, they also become infected very easily and tend to leave terrible scars. Burns are one of the most common household injuries. Burns are also a common work related injury to those that work around electrical equipment and hot surfaces.

There are many different types of burns. Heat burns are caused when the body comes into contact with a source of heat such as fire or a hot surface. Electrical burns occur when the body makes contact with an electrical source such as an ungrounded appliance or an exposed wire. Chemical burns occur when certain substances make contact with the skin. Radiation burns occur when the skin has been exposed to or over exposed to radiation. Each of these burns can be life threatening if they are bad enough or left untreated.

To understand burns and how they affect the human body you need to understand the make up of the skin. There are three layers to our skins. The outer layer is known as the Epidermis. The next layer of skin is known as the Dermis, and finally the last layer is known as Subcutaneous fatty tissue. Burns are classified into three types or "degrees". First Degree burns damage only the epidermis, and usually cause some redness and a small amount of swelling. These types of burns can usually be treated at home with cool water, or ice and an antiseptic spray to prevent infections. Second Degree burns can cause blistering of the skin and they damage the dermis. These burns usually heal spontaneously however they do pose more danger of infection especially if the blisters are ruptured. Some Second Degree burns will require medical attention. Third Degree burns damage all three layers of the skins and many times damage muscle tissue and nerves. These burns may be life threatening and can cause moderate to severe disfigurement. These burns will require emergency medical attention.

There are specially equipped medical centers known as "Burn Centers" located in many areas of the United States. These centers specialize in the treatment of burn patients. They offer a variety of treatments that range from physical therapy to skin grafting and in some areas they also offer reconstructive surgeries and Prostheses and Implants.

Learn more about this author, Regina W.
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