What is Post-Accident Shock?
When vehicle accidents occur, individuals often feel pain right away due to an injury, either external or internal trauma. Sometimes, the science and symptoms of some traumatic injuries appear hours or days later. There are also situations where individuals will experience some form of emotional and psychological shock as a result of an accident, but it may not occur until well after the incident is over. Pierre, we want to discuss what post-accident shock is, examine some of the symptoms, and discuss whether or not you can recover compensation.
What are the Symptoms of Shock?
Individuals typically experience traumatic shock, which is a medical condition, after there is a sudden drop in the blood flow throughout the body. Common causes of shock include trauma, a loss of oxygen, a loss of blood, and a change in blood pressure. Left untreated, medical shock can become a life-threatening condition. Shock can cause permanent organ damage.
Some of the most common symptoms of shock include:
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Cold or clammy skin
- Pale skin, including bluish or grayish fingernails and lips
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weak or quickened pulse
- Rapid breathing
- Fatigue
- Confusion or disorientation
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Loss of consciousness
If you or someone else is in shock, or even if you suspect they may be in shock, you need to dial 911 immediately. Shock symptoms could indicate that there are underlying medical conditions that may not be visible. The most important thing you can do for somebody is to attempt to keep them calm, and you can elevate their legs and feet slightly. This can help with blood pressure and ensure that vital organs are able to receive more of the blood supply. Shock victims often feel very cold, so you can cover them with a blanket to keep them warm period it is very important not to give any person in shock food or drink.
Delayed Shock Symptoms
In some situations, individuals can experience delayed shock after a traumatic incident. After a situation such as a vehicle accident or other trauma, our brains often attempt to protect themselves by blocking out the traumatic event. However, signs and symptoms of shock can arise days after an incident, including symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A study by the National Institute of Mental Health shows that around 39% of all motor vehicle accident survivors develop symptoms of PTSD.
Recovering Compensation
If you or somebody you love has been injured in a vehicle accident and experienced symptoms of shock, you need to seek medical treatment immediately. In the days that follow the incident, you should contact a skilled vehicle accident lawyer in Georgia who can help you examine the best path forward for recovering compensation. You deserve to be compensated for all medical expenses you incur as a result of an accident, including any treatment you had to undergo for shock.
A skilled Atlanta car accident attorney will fully investigate the incident, including gathering all evidence needed to show what happened. They will liaise with insurance carriers and medical professionals to help ensure that you recover maximum compensation for your losses.