Auto accidents can be life-altering events that lead to injuries beyond what is immediately visible. One may not notice any immediate pain or discomfort, which can make it challenging to identify serious internal injuries.
Internal organ damage can take hours, days or even weeks to manifest symptoms. Recognizing these signs early on can prevent severe health issues and improve outcomes.
Continued physical pain and tenderness
Localized pain and tenderness are common indicators of internal organ damage. Pain at the site of impact can range from mild discomfort to severe, sharp pain. Tenderness in these regions can signal potential harm to underlying organs.
Persistent or worsening abdominal pain, for example, might indicate damage to the liver, spleen or intestines. Similarly, pain in the chest area could suggest injuries to the lungs, heart or other thoracic organs.
Bruising and swelling
Bruising and swelling are external signs that often accompany blunt trauma. External bruising may occur at the site of the impact, but internal bleeding can happen without visible signs. An injured person should not dismiss abnormal swelling in the body as minor, especially if it is persistent. It could be a sign of edema, which is fluid buildup in tissues caused by conditions like congestive heart failure, liver disease or kidney disease.
Changes in bodily functions
Changes in bodily functions are possible indicators of internal damage. Trouble with the bladder, such as sudden issues with incontinence or changes in urine color, could signal serious problems. For instance, kidney or bladder damage might lead to hematuria, which is blood in the urine. Similarly, changes in bowel movements, like constipation, diarrhea or blood in the stool, may indicate intestinal injuries.
Delaying treatment for internal injuries can lead to severe health consequences, making early detection and intervention key to recovery. Seek a professional medical diagnosis if any of these symptoms occur after an accident.
Additionally, if you believe you or a loved one is dealing with organ damage after an auto accident, contact the Law Offices of Aman N. Shah to learn more about your legal options.
