6 Signs of Internal Bleeding After a Workplace Accident

If you’ve been involved in a workplace accident, one of the things you’ll want to watch out for is internal bleeding.

Unfortunately, internal bleeding can often go undetected, and if left untreated, it can be fatal. Ahead, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of internal bleeding after a workplace accident, as well as what you should do if you believe or feel you’re suffering from internal bleeding.

First, What Is Internal Bleeding and What Causes It?

Internal bleeding occurs when blood vessels inside the body rupture and leak blood into the surrounding tissues. Several things can cause internal bleeding, including blunt force trauma, falls, car accidents, and even violent coughing or vomiting. Internal bleeding can also be caused by medical conditions like liver disease or aneurysms.

6 Signs and Symptoms of Internal Bleeding

There is generally no definitive sign or symptom of internal bleeding following a workplace accident – instead, it can be indicated by a range of different symptoms. If you experience any of the following, it could signify internal bleeding.

• Low blood pressure: If you experience a sudden drop in blood pressure after an accident, this could be a sign of internal bleeding. Low blood pressure can cause lightheadedness, fainting spells, and dizziness.

• Sudden, searing pain: Internal bleeding may place enough pressure on the surrounding organs to cause severe pain or discomfort. If you experience pain that increases over time, or if it’s not alleviated by medication, it could be a sign of internal bleeding.

• Changes in skin color: Pale skin color can indicate anemia – a condition caused by a lack of healthy red blood cells. If you feel well but notice your skin has become pale, it could be because you’re suffering from anemia – which often goes hand in hand with internal bleeding.

• Abnormal heart rate: A rapid or irregular heartbeat can point to the presence of internal bleeding and should never be ignored.

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds: This is a sign of internal bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. If you experience this, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

• Passing blood: Passing blood from your rectum or dark-colored stools could indicate internal bleeding caused by an injury to your colon or lower Gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

What to Do If You Suspect Internal Bleeding After a Workplace Accident

If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

To make a diagnosis, Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and review your medical history and the circumstances of your workplace accident. They may also perform a CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, or angiogram to identify internal bleeding.

It’s important to report your injury to your employer as well as contact an experienced workers’ comp attorney ASAP. An experienced attorney can help ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the process.

St. Louis Work Injury Lawyer

If you have been injured on the job in Missouri, the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann can evaluate your claim for free. Our St. Louis work injury lawyer has over 30 years of experience protecting the rights of injured Missouri workers and can help answer your questions after a workplace accident.