When accidents occur, you may not immediately realize you have been injured. The shock of the accident itself may make it difficult to determine if damage to the body has occurred. Anyone who has been in an accident should be monitored closely for signs that damage has occurred that may not be immediately evident.
Bleeding
Bleeding from a wound is generally seen immediately. However, bleeding can occur inside the brain without an external wound. Bleeding from a wound should receive immediate medical attention. Call for an ambulance and apply direct pressure to the wound. Avoid applying a tourniquet unless absolutely necessary, as this can damage tissue. Bleeding often requires stitches and may indicate further damage within the body. Surgery may be needed to repair damage of the internal organs. Broken bones may protrude through the skin causing bleeding and visible pieces of the bone. These injuries require not only repair and setting of the injured bone, but also care of the open wound.Symptoms of Head Injury
A head injury is a situation that requires special care. Sometimes, there is no indication If an injured person shows signs of confusion, disorientation, headache, nausea, vomiting, difficulty walking or mood changes, you should seek medical attention immediately. It could be a sign of traumatic brain injury or brain swelling inside the skull. A head injury can cause a concussion and severe injury to the brain. The person may feel headache, bleeding from the eyes or nose, unconsciousness and coma. A head injury that causes unconsciousness can be a medical emergency. Get medical help immediately.Pain
After an accident, pain anywhere in the body is a concern. Pain can be an indicator of fractured bones, muscle tears, nerve damage or other problems. Of course, some pain can be the simple sprains and strains. Minor injuries often respond quickly to simple home treatment and may not require medical care. However, if you are in an accident and have pain, seek medical attention to ensure that no bones have been broken. X-rays and MRIs are common tests to determine if damage has occurred to bones or soft tissues within the body.Swelling
Swelling of a body part is an indication that the body is producing fluids in response to an injury. A joint may visibly swell after an injury. The protective fluids may even cause stiffness and pain in the joint. Swelling can also indicate bleeding under the skin. In this case, the skin is usually discolored, as in the common “black-and-blue” of a bruise, or it may be yellowish or purple. Applying ice packs to the area can reduce swelling. However, extensive swelling or bruising should be seen by a physician to ensure that no internal injury has occurred.Any accident can be serious. If you have been in an accident, getting immediate medical care can be critical. Some injuries can be severe and can lead to long-term disability. For a personal injury attorney Stockton CA residents can call our office to discuss their options.