What symptom typically characterizes critical burns?

The characteristic symptom of critical burns is the appearance of skin that is dry and leathery. This presentation indicates that the burn has penetrated deeper layers of skin, often affecting the dermis and subcutaneous tissues. When burns reach this severity, they can cause significant damage to structures including nerves and blood vessels, which often results in a lack of sensation in the affected area.

In contrast, other symptoms like pain and redness typically describe milder burns, such as first-degree or superficial second-degree burns, where the skin remains intact but is inflamed. Swelling and blisters are also more common with these less severe burns. Itching and irritation can occur in the healing stages of burns but do not characterize critical burns, where the tissue damage is so severe that normal protective responses are altered. Recognizing the distinct signs of critical burns is essential for effective emergency care and treatment.