Internal bleeding is a serious, silent injury that can happen after a car accident and is one of the many car accident injuries that can have delayed or hard-to-detect symptoms. Unlike visible wounds, internal injuries can get worse over time and become life-threatening if not treated right away. Knowing the symptoms early and getting medical help right away is key for anyone involved in an accident. Working with an Atlanta car accident doctor can make all the difference as they are trained to recognize the subtle signs of internal trauma and treat it to prevent bad outcomes.
In this blog, we’ll go over the signs of internal bleeding to look for after a car accident and what to do if you think you have this silent injury.
Types of Internal Injuries From Car Accidents
Internal injuries from a motor vehicle accident can be serious and often go undetected until they become life-threatening. Here are the most common types of internal injuries from car accidents and what they can cause.
Organ Damage
High-impact collisions can cause injuries to vital organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs. These organs in the abdomen and chest are more susceptible to trauma. For example, the spleen can rupture or the liver can tear, both of which can cause internal bleeding. Organ damage may not always show symptoms right away but symptoms like severe abdominal pain, nausea, and signs of shock should get you to the hospital right away. In severe cases, organ damage can lead to serious internal bleeding, requiring immediate medical intervention.
Ruptured Blood Vessels
A sudden impact can rupture blood vessels and cause an internal bleeding injury that can quickly become hypovolemic shock where the body loses too much blood. This can reduce oxygen to vital organs and increase the risk of organ failure and death. In car accidents blood vessels usually rupture in areas that are directly hit like the abdomen or chest so diagnosis and treatment is key.
Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)
Pneumothorax or a collapsed lung can happen when a rib breaks and punctures the lung, often from a forceful impact or blunt trauma. This causes sharp chest pain, difficulty breathing, and rapid heart rate. If left untreated a collapsed lung can cause respiratory distress and further complications like tension pneumothorax where air builds up in the chest and compromises cardiac function. If left untreated, a collapsed lung can cause respiratory distress and further health complications.
Abdominal Aorta Rupture
One of the most serious internal injuries is an abdominal aorta rupture which is the main blood vessel that supplies blood to the lower part of the body. This type of injury can happen from severe trauma to the abdomen and can cause rapid blood loss and shock. Symptoms may include severe abdominal or back pain, pulsating sensation in the abdomen, and signs of shock like clammy skin and fainting. Since this is a fatal injury, prompt medical help is crucial to survival and to prevent serious health complications.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries are common car accident injuries caused by a sudden jolt or blunt force to the head. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms may include headaches, confusion, dizziness, memory issues, and mood changes. Some TBIs may not show symptoms right away but can cause long-term cognitive and physical disabilities. Get medical help right away even if symptoms seem minor to prevent permanent brain injury.
Symptoms to Look Out For After a Car Accident
Recognizing the symptoms of internal bleeding after a car accident is key as some symptoms can be subtle or delayed. Here are the symptoms to watch out for that could mean serious internal harm.
Abdominal Pain and Tenderness
Persistent or severe abdominal pain after a car accident can be one of the internal bleeding symptoms, indicating organ damage, especially to the liver, spleen, or intestines. This pain can be localized or spread across the abdomen and tenderness may develop over time as internal bleeding progresses. Abdominal pain should not be ignored especially if it worsens or is accompanied by nausea or dizziness.
Unexplained Bruising and Swelling
Bruising especially deep bruising in the torso, abdomen or sides can mean bleeding beneath the skin or in the muscles. Swelling may accompany bruising and often means internal bleeding or tissue injury especially if it develops in areas that were not visibly injured. Both symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor as they may be signs of more serious internal trauma. In some cases, individuals have suffered internal bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
Dizziness, Weakness, or Fainting
After a car accident dizziness, extreme weakness or fainting can be from internal bleeding that lowers blood pressure. This bleeding even if slow can deprive the brain and other organs of oxygen and cause these symptoms. Dizziness or fainting after an accident should not be ignored as it can mean life-threatening bleeding and requires urgent care. Car accident victims need to seek immediate medical attention to address potential internal injuries and ensure proper treatment.
Fast Heartbeat and Shortness of Breath
A rapid or irregular heartbeat means the body is trying to compensate for lost blood volume. If combined with shortness of breath or chest pain these symptoms can mean internal bleeding in the chest or around the lungs. Shortness of breath especially can mean a collapsed lung or rib injury, leading to serious internal bleeding, so it’s important to get medical help right away.
Nausea, Vomiting, or Blood in Vomit
Nausea and vomiting, especially with blood in the vomit, can mean gastrointestinal bleeding from internal injuries sustained in a car crash. This can happen when blood accumulates in the stomach or upper intestines and irritates the digestive system. Vomiting after an accident is a warning sign that should not be ignored as it often means the internal injury is getting worse.
Confusion or Altered Mental State
A change in mental clarity – confusion, disorientation or difficulty to focus – may mean reduced blood flow to the brain. This symptom can be from significant blood loss or traumatic brain injury. Any cognitive changes after an accident should be evaluated by a doctor to prevent long-term damage and serious health complications.
Pale or Clammy Skin
Paleness or cold clammy skin is a sign of shock from internal bleeding symptoms. When blood volume decreases, circulation to the skin decreases and this is what causes the paleness. If clammy skin is accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or rapid heartbeat, it’s likely a sign of serious internal injury and needs immediate medical attention.
Blood in Urine or Stools
Blood in the urine or stools can mean an internal bleeding injury in the kidneys, bladder, or gastrointestinal tract. Dark tarry stools mean bleeding higher in the digestive system while bright red blood in stools or urine means trauma to the lower digestive or urinary system. This symptom should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible to determine the source and severity of the injury.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Internal Bleeding
If you or someone else shows signs of internal bleeding after a car accident, car accident victims should take immediate action to ensure safety and proper care. Here are the recommended steps to ensure safety and proper care.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first and most critical step is to seek immediate medical attention, even if internal bleeding symptoms appear mild. Internal bleeding can rapidly escalate, and only medical imaging like CT scans or ultrasounds can confirm the presence and severity of internal injuries. Delaying medical care can increase the risk of severe complications, including organ failure or death.
Avoid Physical Strain
If you suspect internal bleeding, it is essential to avoid any physical exertion, which could worsen the bleeding. Rest as much as possible until medical professionals advise otherwise. Physical activity can increase blood pressure, leading to more severe bleeding or complications. Remaining still and calm helps minimize any additional strain on the body.
Document Symptoms
Keeping track of symptoms and their changes can provide valuable information to healthcare providers. Note the time of symptom onset, their intensity, and any progression, such as increasing pain, dizziness, or new symptoms like vomiting. Accurate documentation can support a faster and more accurate diagnosis, which is critical in managing internal injuries effectively.
Inform Medical Providers About the Accident
When receiving medical care, clearly explain that the symptoms follow a car accident, even if they seem minor at first. Medical providers need this context to assess the possibility of trauma-related internal injuries accurately. Be honest and thorough about the accident details and all symptoms you are experiencing to help clinicians make informed decisions about your care.
Consult a Legal Professional
After receiving medical treatment, consulting a legal professional can help you understand your rights and the potential for compensation if you have suffered internal bleeding. Internal injuries often result in significant medical costs, time away from work, and long-term health issues. An experienced car accident attorney can guide you in building a strong case to secure compensation, ensuring your expenses are covered and your recovery needs are met.
Follow Up on Medical Recommendations
Internal injuries often require follow-up appointments and monitoring to ensure they heal properly. Adhering to all prescribed treatments, rest recommendations, and follow-up imaging can prevent complications and support a full recovery. Be diligent about attending any further medical appointments, as internal bleeding can have delayed effects, and close monitoring is essential.
Seek Treatment From an Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Doctor ASAP!
If you’ve been in a car accident and suspect you may be suffering from internal injuries, car accident victims should not wait—early detection and treatment are vital. Work with our team at Hurt 911 to connect with experienced medical professionals who can guide you through the recovery process.
Contact us at 404-687-9000 to schedule an appointment today!
