Burns can lead to severe scars with long-term physical and mental impact. The treatment is complex and the damage often significant.
Types of Burns
Burns are categorized based on their depth, which affects the treatment method and recovery process.
Classification of Burns
| Degree | Depth | Characteristics | Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st degree | Epidermis | Red, painful | Heals without permanent damage |
| 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 |
| 3rd degree | Full thickness skin | White or brown, painless | Always scars, graft required |
| 4th degree | Underlying tissues | Charred skin | Severe damage, risk of amputation |
Treatment and Recovery Process
Treating severe burns requires a long and intensive approach.
First Aid and Acute Care
- Admission to a burn center
- Fluid administration and pain management
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Skin grafts for severe damage
- Infection prevention
Recovery Phase
Rehabilitation options
- Physiotherapy: maintaining mobility
- Occupational therapy: support with daily tasks
- Pressure garments: reducing scar formation
- Splint therapy: preventing contractures
- Psychological support: coping with trauma
Scars and Long-term Consequences
Scars from burns can bring various complications.
Types of Scars
| Type | Characteristics | Treatment Options |
|---|---|---|
| Hypertrophic | Raised, red, itchy | Pressure therapy, silicone treatment, laser |
| Keloid | Growth beyond wound edges | Injections, surgical intervention, radiation |
| Contracture | Shortening, limited movement | Surgery, physiotherapy |
| Atrophic | Sunken appearance | Fillers or surgical correction |
Physical Limitations
- Movement problems due to contractures
- Loss of sensation in the skin
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Reduced sweat production
- Persistent itching
Mental Impact
Burns often have a profound psychological effect.
Common Psychological Complaints
- PTSD: flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behavior
- Depressive feelings: low mood, sense of emptiness
- Anxiety disorders: fear of fire or social rejection
- Negative self-image: shame over scars
- Social withdrawal: avoiding contact
Compensation in Westland
In cases of burn damage, various cost items can be claimed.
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 and follow-up care
- Aesthetic procedures for scars
- Therapies for scar management
- Psychological counseling
Pain and Suffering Amounts
The amount of pain and suffering compensation is determined by the severity and location of the damage:
- Scars on the face: €15,000 - €100,000+
- Large scars on the body: €30,000 - €150,000
- Life-threatening situations: €75,000 - €200,000
- Functional limitations: higher amounts
Loss of Income
Depending on the location of the burns and the work, disability may occur.
Practical Advice
- Seek treatment in a specialized burn center
- Strictly follow advice for pressure therapy
- Take photos of scars over a long period
- Consider psychological help for mental complaints
- Wait with final damage settlement until scars are stable
Legal Assistance in Westland
For legal support in burn damage cases, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland. In addition, the Rechtbank Den Haag handles cases in this district.