Effects of Burn Injuries

Severe burns may result in extensive damage to body tissues and can lead to several serious complications, including:

• Loss of function of affected body parts.
• Increased risk of infection.
• Permanent scarring, disfigurement, or mutilation.
• Difficulty breathing if burns affect the face, neck, or respiratory passages.
• Secondary shock resulting from extensive fluid loss through burn blisters and damaged skin.

Except for very minor burns, shock should always be considered a possible complication requiring careful observation and prompt treatment.