Burns often cause severe scars with long-term physical and emotional impact. The treatment is intensive and the damage can be significant.
Classification of Burns
The severity of burns is determined by the depth, which affects the treatment method and recovery process.
Categories
| Degree | Depth | Characteristics | Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st degree | Epidermis | Red, painful | Heals without scarring |
| 2nd degree superficial | Upper dermis | Blisters, wet, painful | Often without scars |
| 2nd degree deep | Deeper dermis | White or yellow, less pain | Scars, sometimes skin graft required |
| 3rd degree | Full skin thickness | White or brown, insensate | Always scars, graft required |
| 4th degree | Underlying tissues | Charred skin | Severe scars, amputation possible |
Treatment and Recovery Process
Severe burns require a prolonged and intensive approach.
First Aid and Acute Care
- Admission to a burn center
- Restoration of fluid balance and pain management
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Skin grafts for severe damage
- Infection prevention
Recovery Phase
Recovery Methods
- Physiotherapy: preservation of mobility
- Occupational therapy: support with daily tasks
- Pressure garments: reduction of scar formation
- Splints: prevention of contractures
- Psychological support: coping with trauma
Scars and Their Impact
Scars from burns can bring various complications.
Types of Scars
| Type | Characteristics | Treatment Options |
|---|---|---|
| Hypertrophic | Raised, red, itchy | Pressure therapy, silicone gel, laser treatment |
| Keloid | Grows beyond wound edges | Injections, surgical intervention, radiation |
| Contracture | Shortening, limited mobility | Surgery, physiotherapy |
| Atrophic | Sunken appearance | Fillers or surgical correction |
Physical Limitations
- Limited range of motion due to contractures
- Loss of sensation in affected areas
- Hypersensitivity to temperature
- Reduced sweat production
- Persistent itching
Emotional Consequences
The psychological burden of burns is often significant.
Common Problems
- PTSD: flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behavior
- Depressive feelings: low mood, sense of emptiness
- Anxiety disorders: fear of fire or social rejection
- Negative self-image: shame, social withdrawal
- Isolation: avoidance of contact with others
Compensation and Legal Assistance in Zoetermeer
In cases of burns, various types of damage can be claimed. For legal support, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer or submit cases to the Rechtbank Den Haag.
Types of Damage
Medical Expenses
The costs of treatment are often high and long-term:
- Hospital admission in acute phase
- Surgeries for skin grafts
- Rehabilitation programs
- Aesthetic procedures (multiple surgeries)
- Scar treatments (laser, silicone products)
- Psychological counseling
Pain and Suffering Compensation
The amount of pain and suffering compensation is determined by the severity and location of the damage:
- Facial scars: €15,000 - €100,000+
- Extensive body damage: €30,000 - €150,000
- Life-threatening injuries: €75,000 - €200,000
- Damage with functional limitations: higher amounts
Loss of Income
Depending on the location of the injuries and the occupation, disability may occur.
Practical Advice
- Seek treatment at a specialized burn center
- Strictly follow advice on pressure garments
- Take photos of scars over a longer period for documentation
- Consider early psychological support
- Wait with final damage settlement until scars no longer change
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I go to a burn center?
Burns of 2nd degree larger than your palm, or injuries in sensitive areas such as face, hands or joints, require specialist care. This also applies to 3rd and 4th degree burns. If in doubt, consult a general practitioner or the emergency department in Zoetermeer immediately.