When Car Accidents Cause Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding can occur as a result of the severe impact and trauma experienced during a car crash. The force of the collision can damage blood vessels or internal organs, leading to bleeding within the body and subsequent internal injuries. Internal bleeding is particularly dangerous because it is not always immediately apparent, and serious health complications may develop over time. Common causes of internal bleeding in car accidents include blunt force trauma, penetrating injuries, or fractures that damage nearby tissues and arteries.
Recognizing the signs of severe internal injuries and seeking prompt medical attention is critical for preventing life-threatening complications. The experienced car accident lawyers at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to help you in the aftermath of a car accident. Contact us for a free consultation with an experienced car accident attorney today to discuss the possibility of a personal injury case.
Common Symptoms of Internal Bleeding Following a Car Accident
Internal bleeding symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury, but there are several common signs of car accident injuries that indicate internal bleeding. Common symptoms of internal bleeding include:
Abdominal Pain or Swelling
Persistent pain or noticeable bloating in the stomach area may indicate bleeding in the abdominal cavity.
Bruising or Discoloration
Areas of deep purple or blue bruising, especially in unexpected places like the abdomen or chest, can signal significant internal bleeding.
Dizziness or Fainting
Low blood pressure caused by blood loss can lead to lightheadedness or sudden fainting episodes.
Shortness of Breath
Bleeding in the chest cavity can compress the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.
Nausea or Vomiting
Blood loss or irritation from serious internal bleeding can lead to vomiting, which may sometimes contain blood.
Weakness or Fatigue
Ongoing blood loss may result in feelings of extreme fatigue or physical weakness.
Pale or Clammy Skin
Reduced blood flow due to internal bleeding can cause the skin to appear pale or feel cold and clammy.
It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms occur after a motor vehicle accident, as internal bleeding can quickly escalate to a life-threatening condition.
Causes of Serious Internal Injury From a Car Accident
Car accidents can lead to internal injuries due to various factors, depending on the severity and nature of the car crash. Because of this, an injured person must seek medical attention very soon following the car crash. Some common causes of internal injury include:
Blunt Force Trauma
This occurs when a hard object, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt, strikes a part of the body. The impact can compress internal organs, causing bruising, rupture, or internal bleeding.
Penetrating Injuries
Sharp objects, broken glass, or debris from the collision can pierce through the skin and damage internal organs. These injuries may cause significant bleeding and require immediate medical attention.
Sudden Deceleration or Acceleration
High-speed car crashes often involve rapid changes in velocity. This can cause internal organs to shift abruptly within the body, potentially tearing or rupturing tissue and blood vessels.
Seatbelt Injuries
While seatbelts are designed to save lives, they can sometimes cause harm during high-impact collisions. The force of the restraint may lead to contusions or damage to the abdominal area.
Airbag Deployment
Airbags are essential safety devices, but the significant force due to their rapid deployment can sometimes cause blunt trauma to the chest or abdomen, particularly if deployed incorrectly.
Each of these causes highlights the importance of seeking professional medical evaluation after a car accident, even if there are no immediate visible injuries. Internal damage is not always apparent but can have severe or even life-threatening consequences.
Common Internal Injuries
Internal bleeding can result from a variety of internal injuries, depending on the location and severity of the trauma. Some of the most common internal injuries associated with internal bleeding include:
Head Injuries
Head trauma, such as from a fall or a blow, can lead to bleeding in the brain, also known as a hemorrhagic stroke or intracranial hemorrhage. This can cause pressure on the brain and may result in life-threatening complications.
Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious condition that occurs when a sudden trauma, such as a violent blow or jolt to the head, disrupts the normal function of the brain. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often accompanied by internal bleeding. Internal bleeding within the brain or surrounding areas may exacerbate the injury, leading to increased intracranial pressure and potential long-term complications such as cognitive impairments, personality changes, or mobility issues. Prompt medical evaluation and intervention are critical in managing TBIs and preventing further damage.
Chest Injuries
Rib fractures or lung trauma can cause bleeding into the chest cavity, which may impair breathing and lead to conditions like hemothorax (blood accumulation in the chest).
Abdominal Injuries
Blunt force or penetrating trauma to the abdomen can damage internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys, causing internal bleeding in the abdominal cavity.
Bone Fractures
Severe broken bones, especially fractures of large bones like the femur or pelvis, can result in significant blood loss, both internally and externally.
Ruptured Blood Vessels
Aneurysms or weakened blood vessels can rupture spontaneously or due to trauma, leading to severe internal bleeding in areas such as the brain, abdomen, or chest.
All of these internal injuries require prompt medical evaluation and treatment to prevent further harm and to manage blood loss effectively.
Treatment for Internal Bleeding
Treatment for internal bleeding depends on the severity, location, and underlying cause. Immediate medical intervention is often required to prevent significant complications or death from severe internal bleeding. Initial steps typically include stabilizing the patient through measures such as administering intravenous fluids or blood transfusions to manage shock and restore circulating blood volume.
Once stabilized, further treatment may involve surgical or minimally invasive procedures to stop the bleeding. For example, in cases of trauma, emergency surgery may be needed to repair damaged blood vessels or organs. Endoscopic techniques can be used for bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, while interventional radiology procedures like embolization can help control bleeding in specific areas without the need for open surgery. Medications, such as clotting agents or anticoagulant reversals, may be used in certain circumstances to support the body’s natural ability to stop bleeding. Close monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to ensure recovery and address complications.
What To Do If You Suspect Internal Bleeding Following a Car Accident
If you suspect someone is experiencing internal bleeding after a car accident, it is vital to act quickly and seek medical attention.
- Seek immediate medical help and call emergency services immediately, as internal bleeding can become life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- While waiting for emergency responders to arrive, try to keep the affected person as calm and still as possible to prevent further injury or exacerbation of the bleeding.
- Avoid giving them food, drink, or medication, as these could complicate potential surgical interventions.
- If they are unconscious, monitor their breathing and pulse, and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
- Remember, even if external injuries are not visible, symptoms like severe pain, dizziness, confusion, or signs of shock (such as pale, cold, or clammy skin) may signal internal bleeding.
Always prioritize getting professional medical care to ensure the best chance of recovery.
What Happens If You Do Not Treat Internal Bleeding
Failing to treat internal bleeding can lead to severe consequences, both immediate and long-term. Left untreated, internal bleeding can cause significant blood loss, leading to hypovolemic shock—a condition where the body cannot pump sufficient blood to vital organs. This can result in organ failure, brain damage, or even death.
Over time, untreated internal bleeding may lead to the formation of clots, infection, or further complications such as permanent damage to tissues and organs. Additionally, subtle but persistent cases of internal bleeding, if unnoticed, can progressively worsen and create chronic health issues. Ignoring the symptoms or delaying treatment could drastically reduce the chances of recovery, making it essential to address any signs of internal bleeding without hesitation.
The Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers Will Advocate For You After a Car Accident
At Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can have on your life. Our experienced team of accident and injury lawyers is dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies, gathering evidence to support your case, or representing you in court, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
We pride ourselves on our compassionate approach and commitment to achieving justice for our clients. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Contact Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward rebuilding your life.