Third-degree burns destroy the epidermis and dermis. Third-degree burns may also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. The burn site appears white or charred. There is no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed. Second and third-degree burns require the immediate attention of a physician or other healthcare provider. Listed below you will find additional information relating to first-, second-, or third-degree burns.
Causes In most cases, third-degree burns are caused by the following:
a scalding liquid
skin that comes in contact with a hot object for an extended period of time
flames from a fire
an electrical source
a chemical source
Symptoms The following are the most common symptoms of a third-degree burn. However, each child/person may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
dry and leathery skin
black, white, brown, or yellow skin
swelling
lack of pain because nerve endings have been destroyed
Large third-degree burns heal slowly and poorly without medical attention. Because the epidermis and hair follicles are destroyed, new skin will not grow.
Participants