Car accidents can often result in injuries to the spleen. This essential organ is located on the upper left side of the abdominal area and helps fight infections and filter old blood cells from the bloodstream. Any injury to the spleen can be serious, and a ruptured spleen can be life-threatening.
Types of Spleen Injuries
There are different levels of severity for spleen injuries, including:
- Bruised spleen
- Enlarged spleen
- Ruptured spleen
When the surface of the spleen is ruptured, it can lead to internal bleeding. A ruptured spleen can occur from the harsh impact of the crash or from being punctured by a broken rib. Surgery is usually required to stop internal bleeding that could be potentially fatal, and doctors might even decide to remove the organ.
You can live without a spleen, but it makes you more vulnerable to infections because it is an essential part of the immune system.
Signs of a Spleen Injury
Because injury symptoms don’t always present right away, it’s important to know the warning signs of a ruptured spleen. They may include:
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness, confusion, lightheadedness, or lost consciousness
- Pain in the left shoulder
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tenderness or pain in the upper left abdomen
The most common complication of a ruptured spleen is internal bleeding and the issues that result such as cysts and blood clots.
Contact an Experienced Car Accidents Attorney
Did you suffer a ruptured spleen in a car accident? Recovery can take up to three months, depending on the severity of the injury and treatment. This could mean expensive medical bills and weeks of lost income. Contact an experienced attorney to help ensure you recover the damages you deserve to cover your expenses and move forward with your life.
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