If you have been in a car wreck, then you may still be trying to figure out all the injuries you suffered. Some, like broken bones, are easy to assess after an injury. Others, though, make take time to discover, particularly if you are not fully assessed at the hospital after your accident. One of the more common types of injuries are spinal cord injuries. Here, we will briefly discuss some symptoms of a spinal cord injury. If they apply to you, be sure to seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of a spinal cord injury can vary in type and degree. However, common symptoms include loss of movement, inability to control bowel or bladder, sensation loss, exaggerated reflexes, pain, and difficulty breathing. Also, if you suffer extreme pain in your back, neck or head, then you should see a doctor. Other signs of serious spinal cord injury include weakness, paralysis, incoordination, numbness, loss of sensation, and a twisted back or neck.
When doctors analyze your spinal cord injury, they assess the neurological level and the completeness of the injury. The neurological level refers to the lowest part of your spinal cord that functions normally. The completeness of your injury refers to the severity of the injury, with a complete injury meaning you have lost all or almost all feeling and ability to move below the injury.
Being diagnosed with a spinal cord injury can be scary. You may be unsure of your physical future, and obtaining the medical care you need can be quite expensive. By filing a lawsuit against a negligent driver you may be able to recover much needed compensation, which could help you cover medical expenses. If you do win your case, then you may be able to adequately treat your serious injury and move on with your life as best as possible.
Source: Mayo Clinic, “Spinal cord injury,” accessed on July 3, 2015
