The victim’s pain levels, treatment, and recovery vary widely, depending on the cause and severity of the burn. A doctor will assess the burn and may advise treating minor burns at home. However, treatment for serious burns may require wound dressings, medications, skin grafts, and physical, mental, or occupational therapy. The goal of treatment is to prevent infection, remove dead tissue, minimize scarring, regain function, and control pain levels. Those with severe burns may need treatment at specialized burn centers. Burn injuries may lead to visible scarring, and can cause emotional and psychological trauma.
Burn injury treatment is very expensive, often costing well over $200,000, even for a moderate injury. Severe burn injuries can cost $1.5 million or more. In the event of complications, the cost may exceed $10 million.
Treatments may include:
Water-based treatments.
Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and organ failure.
Pain and anxiety medications. Burns can be incredibly painful.
Drugs that fight infection.
Specialty wound dressings.
Burn creams and ointments. These may be used in less serious cases to help prevent infection and prepare the wound to close.
Follow-up treatment for physical and occupational therapy.