How Are Internal Injuries Diagnosed After a Car Accident in Texas?

After being involved in an accident, some injuries may be immediately obvious and visible while others remain hidden for hours or even days. Internal injuries can be especially dangerous after a car accident because symptoms are not always obvious, so it’s important to understand how they can be diagnosed. Continue reading for more information and consult with a knowledgeable San Angelo, Texas car accident lawyer today.

What Are Internal Injuries?

Internal injuries occur when damage happens inside the body without visible external signs like cuts or bruises. These injuries can affect your vital organs, blood vessels, brain tissue, and internal soft tissues.

When it comes to car accidents, internal trauma is commonly caused by pressure from the seat belt, blunt force trauma, rapid deceleration, and airbag deployment. Internal injuries can range in severity from minor to fatal. They are especially dangerous because victims may initially feel fine and neglect to seek medical treatment. Adrenaline can temporarily mask pain, making the person unaware of the true extent of their injuries.

What Are Some Common Internal Injuries?

Common examples of internal injuries include:

• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Collapsed lungs
• Rib fractures
• Brain bleeding
• Abdominal trauma

People who have been involved in car accidents should be on the lookout for common symptoms, even if they feel fine. Remain alert for dizziness, severe pain, shortness of breath, deep bruising, fainting, pale and clammy skin, and confusion. Untreated internal injuries can become life-threatening without treatment, so understanding how they can be diagnosed is important.

How Are Internal Injuries Diagnosed After a Car Accident in TX?

In order for internal injuries to be diagnosed, there needs to be a thorough medical evaluation. Physical assessments are necessary to identify subtle signs like abdominal rigidity or tenderness. Monitoring vital signs is also crucial, for example, in case there is a sudden drop in blood pressure, which could indicate internal hemorrhaging.

Medical imaging is one of the primary tools for diagnosing internal injuries. CT (computed tomography) scans are effective at detecting organ damage to the liver or spleen and identifying internal bleeding. Doctors also often use the Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) exam to detect blood or fluid around the vital organs. X-rays are also essential for identifying issues like fractured ribs that could puncture a lung, and MRIs can provide detailed images of soft tissue damage, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Blood tests can also help professionals monitor blood loss and internal organ function.

All of these diagnostic processes are crucial to ensure that life-threatening complications can be identified and addressed as soon as possible. For more information and to secure the help of an experienced legal professional, contact the Mathis Law Firm today.