Car accidents can leave behind more than just visible bruises or broken bones. Sometimes, the most dangerous injuries are the ones you can’t see. Expert Edwardsville car accident lawyers caution that internal bleeding is one of those hidden threats. It doesn’t always appear immediately, but it can become life-threatening if left unattended. Whether the crash seems minor or major, it’s essential to know the symptoms to watch out for. Here are five key signs that may point to internal bleeding after a car accident—signs that should never be taken lightly.
1. Abdominal Pain or Swelling
One of the earliest and most common signs of internal bleeding is persistent pain or swelling in the abdomen. After a crash, this may be dismissed as general soreness, especially if the seatbelt tightened sharply or the body jerked forward. However, internal bleeding in the abdominal cavity can create pressure and pain that worsens over time. If your stomach feels tight, tender to touch, or increasingly bloated, it could be a red flag that blood is pooling where it shouldn’t.
2. Deep Purple or Blue Skin Discoloration
Bruises are expected after a collision, but not all bruising is harmless. Large, dark, or deep purple patches—especially around the torso, chest, or flanks—may indicate bleeding underneath the skin or into deeper tissues. This is known as ecchymosis and may appear hours or even days after the crash. Pay special attention if bruises are appearing in places where you don’t recall any direct impact, as this could suggest bleeding from internal organs.
3. Dizziness, Fainting, or Confusion
When there’s internal bleeding, your body loses blood volume, which can reduce oxygen to the brain. This often causes symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, or even fainting. These warning signs shouldn’t be brushed off, especially if they weren’t present immediately after the accident. Feeling mentally foggy or physically weak could mean that your body is struggling to cope with blood loss, and immediate medical attention is critical.
4. Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain
Internal bleeding doesn’t just affect the abdomen. If the lungs or chest cavity were impacted, you might experience sharp pain, trouble breathing, or a tight sensation in the chest. These symptoms could point to a collapsed lung or internal bleeding around the heart or lungs. You might also notice rapid breathing or a racing heartbeat as your body tries to compensate for the loss of blood and oxygen. This can become a medical emergency within minutes.
5. Nausea, Vomiting, or Blood in Bodily Fluids
Feeling sick to your stomach or vomiting after a crash isn’t always a result of shock or trauma. Sometimes it’s a sign of internal bleeding, especially if there’s blood present in the vomit. Likewise, if you notice blood in your urine or stools, it may indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal or urinary tract. These signs are often overlooked or misunderstood, but they can be strong indicators that something is seriously wrong inside your body.
When in Doubt, Get Checked Out
Internal bleeding isn’t always immediate, and symptoms may not show up for hours or even days. That’s what makes it so dangerous. If you’ve been in a car crash and notice any of the above symptoms, don’t wait it out. Head to a hospital or urgent care center as soon as possible. Diagnostic tools like CT scans and ultrasounds can detect bleeding and help doctors treat it before it becomes life-threatening.
Final Thoughts
Injuries from a car crash—especially hidden ones like internal bleeding—can lead to expensive medical bills, lost wages, and long recovery times. If someone else was at fault for the accident, you deserve compensation for your suffering and expenses. Once your medical needs are addressed, it’s wise to speak with a personal injury lawyer who understands how to handle complex injury claims. Skilled Edwardsville car accident lawyers can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, and ensure you get the support you need to recover fully.
