Most of the time, people who are injured in car accidents know it right away – they may have cuts, bruises or immediate pain.
Sometimes, however, the most dangerous injuries of all go unnoticed in the aftermath of a wreck. Internal injuries are not only invisible to the naked eye, they may not even cause significant pain until they become life-threatening. They’re often related to internal bleeding, and signs of trouble include:
Abdominal pain and swelling
One of the most common signs of internal injuries is abdominal pain. Whether sharp, dull, or throbbing, any pain accompanied by swelling can indicate internal bleeding from your liver, spleen or intestines.
Bruising and discoloration that spreads
While bruising is common after a wreck, specific patterns and locations of bruising can indicate serious internal injuries. Look for deep purple or black bruises that keep getting bigger, especially if they’re around your middle and the skin underneath feels taut or hard. That could be internal bleeding.
Dizziness or fainting
Feeling dizzy or fainting can indicate blood loss, which reduces the amount of oxygen reaching your brain. Even if the dizziness or fainting is brief, it’s important to get evaluated by a doctor.
Nausea and vomiting
Persistent nausea or vomiting can be a sign of damage to your abdomen or brain. Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds is particularly alarming because it may indicate internal bleeding.
Shortness of breath and chest pain
Shortness of breath and chest pain are critical symptoms that should never be ignored. They can result from injuries to the lungs, ribs or heart and develop due to internal swelling.
The potential for these injuries and others is the reason it is so important to have a medical evaluation after a wreck – even if you initially feel fine. It’s also important to make sure that you pay careful attention to your body and watch for anything unusual in the hours and days following a car accident.
If you were injured in a wreck due to another party’s negligence, you have every right to ask for fair compensation for your losses. Legal guidance can help you learn more.
