Chemical burns occur when human tissue is damaged by direct chemical exposure. These burns can lead to severe scarring and even physical disabilities. The extent of the damage depends greatly on the duration of contact and the location of the injury. While it’s rare for victims to die from chemical burns, it’s still important to seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of chemical burns include:
- Irritation
- Discolored skin
- Pain
- Blisters
- Vision loss
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrest
Most chemical burn injuries occur at home or in workplaces that utilize chemical products. In fact, many common household products can be responsible for chemical burns, including: bleach, drain cleaners, teeth whitening products, and chlorine.
Likewise, many manufacturing and construction companies frequently expose their employees to caustic substances, including: asbestos, silica, zinc, cadmium, and mercury. If an accident occurs, an employer or company can be held liable for financial damages. If you suffer a chemical burn injury at work, it’s important to contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation cases and chemical burn injuries.
Medical Care
When it comes to treating chemical burns, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and call 911. While waiting for emergency services, you can administer basic first aid and remove any contaminated clothing that may cause you further injury. You need to wash the site of contact immediately, especially if your eyes were exposed to the chemical.
Chemical burns are diagnosed based on a victim’s level of pain and the extent and depth of the damage. Severe burns may require skin replacement procedures and cosmetic surgeries. While most chemical burn are outpatient cases, you may require inpatient care if you swallowed or inhaled the chemical.
Schedule a Consultation
Call Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC if a person or corporation is responsible for your chemical burn injury. Our Charleston burn injury attorneys have the skills and resources to help you pursue maximum financial compensation.
Contact our Charleston burn injury lawyers at (843) 968-0886 to schedule your free consultation.