Burns can be caused by numerous reasons. 86% of burns are caused by thermal injuries, while about 4% are electrical and 3% are chemical.

• Heat sources – such as steam, hot liquids, smoking, open fires, and direct contact with hot objects.
• Extreme cold – causes frostbite injuries.
• Chemicals – paint thinners, acids, alkalis, cement, etc.
• Radiation – radiotherapy for the treatment of cancer.
• Electrical shocks can cause burns.
• Sunlight – overexposure to sunlight or UV radiation.
• Physical abuse.

The level or degree of an injury will influence the specific burn symptoms and they may include:

• Visible burns on the head, face, neck, scalp, etc.
• Blisters that are intact or that have ruptured and leaked fluid.
• Pain that is unrelated to the degree of burn.
• Even the most severe burns may not hurt.
• Swelling
• Charred skin that is red, white, or black.
• The skin may peel.
• Skin that is cold and pale
• Weakness

Diagnosing a burn injury may include the following steps:

• History taking – the doctor may ask questions related to the incident by which the injury happened, any history of burns, etc.
• Physical examination – Circulation, airway, and breathing of the patient will be checked. If the burn is very deep, covers more than 10 percent of the total body surface area, is on the face and, foot, or crotch for example, the burn’s severity may be assessed, and a shift to a burn center may be advised.
• Blood test – Full blood count may be performed as a blood test. It is possible to assess serum urea and electrolytes.

• Hypovolemia – low blood volume and dehydration may be seen.
• Hypothermia – critically low body temperature.
• Respiratory issues brought on by breathing in smoke or hot air.
• Hypotension – extremely low blood pressure resulting in a shock.
• Shock – a potentially fatal condition that develops when the body receives insufficient oxygen.
• Arrhythmia – abnormalities in the heart’s rhythm brought on by an electric burn.
• Disfiguring Scars & Contractures – Bone and joint problems may develop during the healing process when the scar tissues shorten and tighten the skin, muscles, or tendons.