Slip and fall accidents are prevalent and can occur almost anywhere, but they are especially prevalent during the winter. These injuries can happen in the community, mall, or work. The first thing you need to do is go to a healthcare center and see a doctor. Unfortunately, some injuries are not easily recognizable by a medical facility and may only appear over time. Here are a few.
Concussions
Did you know that you may have a concussion even if you did not hit your head when you fell? Severe violent shaking can also cause a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury, even if your head did not make contact with a stationary object. Unfortunately, if you tell your doctor that you did not hit your head or lose consciousness, they may not test for a concussion. Symptoms of a concussion include the following:
These symptoms can come and go or change over time. For example, you may initially experience dizziness or balance problems early on but have concentration or memory issues over time. If you continue to have symptoms that do not go away, follow up with your medical facility for additional testing.
Often, concussions are hard to recognize by the person experiencing the symptoms. You may realize that you do not feel "right" or like yourself. Discuss these feelings with your doctor so they will record them in your record.
Neck Issues
Neck or soft tissue injuries can often result from damage to your neck's muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These injuries are often called whiplash, caused by sudden violent movements such as those in a slip and fall. Symptoms of whiplash may include:
Whiplash usually gets better over a few weeks with a treatment plan and medications, but unfortunately, some people can experience long-term effects from whiplash.
Coccyx Injuries
A slip and fall often may result in your landing on your butt. While your bottom may have padding, you may still injure your coccyx or tailbone. You may sustain a nasty bruise, but you may also have a dislocation or fracture.
These injuries are often difficult to diagnose, but you need medical attention if you have severe localized pain or tenderness in your tailbone area. Your local healthcare facility can x-ray the site for a concrete diagnosis.
Contact a medical facility such as the People's Community Clinic of Newberg to learn more.
It wasn't until three of my close family members were diagnosed with cancer that I started taking my personal health seriously. Between the heart problems, the diabetes and now the cancer that runs strong in my family, I know that I don't have much of a future to look forward to unless I start taking care of myself today. How do you do your best to stay healthy? What kind of diet should you follow? How much exercise do you really need? How often should you see a doctor? This blog will help you find the answers to these and many more questions about your health.