After being involved in a serious accident, like an auto collision, you may be tempted to just go home and count your lucky stars that you survived unscathed. However, not all injuries are apparent right away, and you could be suffering from internal hemorrhaging. Neglecting to get a medical check could cost you your life.
Why Internal Bleeding Is Dangerous
Your blood is what supplies oxygen to your organs and your muscles. Without blood, your body would be unable to transport any oxygen, meaning your cells would quickly suffocate and die. That is why bleeding out is so dangerous. When you suffer a deep laceration, there is the risk you will lose too much blood volume, and your body will be unable to pump oxygen to the areas that need it to the most, such as your heart and brain.
With an external injury, the bleed is obvious, especially if the wound is a serious one and is bleeding a lot. This is a clear sign that you need medical attention, which means the wound will not go untreated, and you will be able to heal quickly and properly. However, when the wound is internal, spotting it can be much harder.
The fact that internal bleeding is so easy to miss is exactly what makes it so dangerous. If a major blood vessel is damaged, you could bleed out in a matter of hours, or even minutes. The blood could also pool within cavities of your body, causing further damage, as the pressure from the blood may cause skin, muscles, and ligaments to stretch, or even crush organs. If an internal bleed goes unnoticed for too long, it is very possible that you could pass out, and die. Knowing the signs of an internal bleed can save your life after a serious accident.
The Signs of Internal Bleeding
Thankfully, internal bleeding is not completely invisible. Usually, there are signs that point to the injury, but most people don’t know what to look for. You should always keep these symptoms in the back of your mind so that you can get the medical help you need following a serious accident. An internal bleed isn’t going to just fix itself. Signs to look out for include:
- Dizziness
- Sudden weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Difficult seeing
- Passing out
- Intense headache
- Intense pain in the abdomen
- Difficulties breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Numbness or lack of sensation
- Difficulties keeping warm
- Swelling or discoloration in the area of the injury
The clearest signs of an internal bleed will be the symptoms that come with extreme blood loss. That means if you become weak, numb, and cold following an accident, it is very possible that you are suffering from internal bleeding, even if you have not noticed any other wounds.
Always Seek Medical Assistance
If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms above, you should immediately seek medical help. Do not drive yourself to a hospital. You may pass out from the blood loss, resulting in a serious accident. Instead, ask a friend or family member to drive you, or call for an ambulance. Even if you are unsure as to whether you are experiencing internal hemorrhaging, you should still seek medical help. The symptoms listed above are serious, no matter what injury or condition is causing them. There is nothing more important than your health.
If your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence, then you deserve proper compensation. Treating internal bleeding isn’t easy, and may cost you a great deal in medical bills. That is where we at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., come in. We can give you the legal representation you need, and fight for your right to a fair settlement. As Colorado Springs personal injury attorneys, we have the skill and expertise that you need. To tell us about your accident, call us at (719) 475-2555. We are ready to help.