Slip and fall accidents are often dismissed as minor incidents, especially when there are no visible cuts or broken bones. However, some of the most dangerous injuries caused by a fall are internal and may not show immediate symptoms.
Internal injuries can worsen over time, becoming life-threatening if left untreated. Knowing the warning signs can help you seek medical care before complications arise.
Why Internal Injuries Are So Dangerous
Internal injuries affect organs, blood vessels, or soft tissues inside the body. Unlike external injuries, they are not always obvious right after a fall. Adrenaline, shock, or delayed inflammation can mask symptoms for hours or even days. In some cases, people feel “fine” initially and only realize something is wrong once the injury has progressed.
Because slip and fall accidents often involve hard surfaces like concrete, tile, or stairs, the force of impact can cause significant internal trauma even without visible bruising.
Common Types of Internal Injuries from Slip and Falls
Slip and fall accidents can cause several types of internal injuries, including:
- Internal bleeding
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Organ damage (such as to the liver, spleen, or kidneys)
- Internal bruising (hematomas)
- Spinal cord injuries
Each of these injuries can present with subtle symptoms that should never be ignored.
Warning Signs of Internal Injuries After a Fall
If you experience any of the following symptoms after a slip and fall accident, seek medical attention immediately:
Abdominal Pain or Swelling
Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the abdomen may indicate internal bleeding or damage to organs like the liver or spleen. The pain may worsen over time or feel deep and persistent rather than sharp.
Dizziness, Lightheadedness, or Fainting
These symptoms can be signs of internal bleeding or a head injury. A drop in blood pressure due to internal blood loss may cause dizziness or fainting, even hours after the accident.
Severe or Worsening Headaches
Persistent headaches, pressure in the head, confusion, or sensitivity to light can indicate a traumatic brain injury or brain bleeding. These symptoms should always be evaluated by a medical professional.
Nausea or Vomiting
Unexplained nausea or vomiting after a fall may be linked to internal bleeding, head trauma, or organ damage. Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds is a medical emergency.
Chest Pain or Difficulty Breathing
Pain in the chest, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing can signal internal injuries such as lung bruising, rib fractures affecting internal organs, or internal bleeding in the chest cavity.
Unusual Bruising or Skin Discoloration
Deep bruising, especially around the abdomen, back, or sides of the body, may be a sign of internal bleeding beneath the skin. Bruises that appear hours or days later should not be ignored.
Weakness, Numbness, or Tingling
These symptoms may indicate spinal cord injuries or nerve damage. Weakness in the arms or legs, loss of coordination, or difficulty walking are especially concerning.
Fatigue or Feeling “Off”
Extreme fatigue, confusion, or a general sense that something isn’t right can signal internal injuries. Trust your instincts—if you feel worse instead of better, seek help.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
If you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident, it’s critical to take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms seem mild
- Follow up with your doctor if new symptoms develop
- Document your symptoms and medical visits
- Avoid downplaying your injuries
Early diagnosis can prevent complications and may even save your life.
When Internal Injuries Involve Negligence
Slip and fall accidents often occur due to hazardous conditions such as wet floors, uneven pavement, poor lighting, or a lack of warning signs. When a property owner’s negligence causes a fall, victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, especially when internal injuries lead to long-term health issues.
Contact Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Internal injuries after a slip and fall accident are serious and can be life-threatening if left untreated. Even if you feel fine immediately after a fall, symptoms may not appear for hours or days, and by then, the damage may already be severe.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Contact Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation. Our Chicago slip and fall accident lawyers can help you understand your rights, investigate the cause of your fall, and pursue the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.
We proudly serve Cook County, Will County, Kendall County, and their surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Chicago Office
10 S La Salle St STE 1230, Chicago, IL 60603
Phone:(312) 726-1616
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Chicago
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 41.8815493,-87.6327515
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Joliet Office
195 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
Phone: (815) 726-1616
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Joliet
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 41.5254295,-88.1381011
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Rockford Office
318 N 1st St, Rockford, IL 61107
Phone:(815) 662-0330
Hours: Open 24/7
