Electrical burns can be a life-changing event and may require medical care. The symptoms of an electrical shock include increased pressure in the muscle compartment. This is known as compartment syndrome. The fascia that surrounds large muscle groups holds them in place. When an electrical shock is applied to the muscles, the pressure builds up and cannot escape. The increased pressure can pinch nerves and suffocate blood vessels. Left untreated, compartment syndrome can lead to permanent nerve or muscle damage or limb loss.
High-voltage electrical burns
Electrical burns are excruciating and can affect your ability to live a normal lifestyle. High-voltage electricity can cause severe disfiguring injuries. The higher the voltage, the more serious the burns can be. Some burns can cause a permanent disability and require extensive surgery. High-voltage electrical burns are rare, but they can still be devastating. High-voltage electrical burns can also affect your vision and cause neurological issues. They may also affect your taste and smell. Depending on the type of burn, you may experience first or second-degree burns. First-degree burns affect the upper layers of the skin, while second-degree burns result in blistering and wet injuries. You must seek immediate medical attention if you have suffered a high-voltage electrical burn. This happens when significant underlying muscle tissue is involved in the electrical injury. This can lead to neurovascular compromise in the affected extremity. In such cases, surgeons may perform a fasciotomy to regain perfusion to the area. It would be best if you underwent a quick evaluation for signs of compartment syndrome.
Traditional burn injuries caused by untethered electricity
Untethered electricity can cause traditional burn injuries in a variety of ways. These injuries can be severe and require immediate medical attention. The tissue affected by these injuries can become numb or white. They may also involve the heart and nerves. In addition to physical damage, electrical burns can cause psychological trauma. Electric shocks can also cause damage to muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. In severe cases, an electrical injury may result in death. Further, these injuries may require ongoing rehabilitation or wound care. Long-term effects can include post-traumatic stress response and depression. If you have suffered a burn injury from an untethered electricity source, visit a doctor for any ongoing symptoms. If an untethered electrical injury is severe, a complete blood count and electrolytes are performed to determine the extent of muscle damage. A loss of red blood cells may be a sign of myoglobinuria, which occurs when muscles are damaged. The creatinine kinase level is also measured to estimate the extent of muscle damage. The level is essential for determining the likelihood of amputation or death and the length of the patient’s hospital stay. Pain management is also performed, and fluid resuscitation may be necessary.
Treatment of electrical burns
Electrical burns are often severe and can seriously affect internal organs. To properly treat them, a physician will first diagnose the extent of the injury. To do so, a variety of tests will be ordered. These tests may include a complete blood count and urinalysis. In addition, a CT scan may be performed to rule out head trauma or fractures. In some cases, the injured area may require surgery to repair. Treating electrical burns may be complex but compelling if you follow a few guidelines. First, remove the person from the source of electricity. After this, check for breathing. If you can, gently touch and talk to the person to check for a response. If the person is conscious, you can begin CPR immediately. You should also remove any clothing that comes off the burn and wash the area with cool water. Treatment of electrical burns may require the participation of several healthcare providers. Effective communication should be between all parties involved in the patient’s care, including their doctor. A team approach is the most effective in treating an electrical burn patient.
