the Risk of Internal Bleeding After a Fall

The possibility of internal bleeding from a fall?

Hello doctor, I fell while skateboarding today and landed on my right side, impacting my hip and elbow.
However, after returning home, I started to feel some vague pain and bloating in my left abdomen, along with mild palpitations and nausea.
Do you think I might have internal bleeding in my abdomen? What should I do?

Lin Qi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/11

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, please monitor for any unusual symptoms over the next few days, such as severe vomiting or intense abdominal pain.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to go to the emergency department for a thorough examination.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2023/03/11

More Info

When it comes to the risk of internal bleeding after a fall, especially in your case where you experienced a skateboard accident resulting in pain in the left side of your abdomen, it is crucial to take your symptoms seriously. Internal bleeding can occur without visible external injuries, and it can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

Based on your description, the symptoms you are experiencing—abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness or bloating, mild palpitations, and nausea—could potentially indicate internal bleeding, particularly if the pain is localized and persistent. The abdomen is home to many vital organs, and trauma can lead to injuries such as splenic rupture, liver laceration, or even vascular injuries, which can cause bleeding into the abdominal cavity.

Immediate Steps to Take
1. Seek Medical Attention: Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare professional will likely perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies, such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan, to assess for any internal injuries or bleeding.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms. If you experience worsening pain, increasing heart rate, dizziness, fainting, or any signs of shock (such as cold, clammy skin or confusion), you should seek emergency care immediately.

3. Avoid Certain Activities: Until you have been evaluated by a healthcare provider, it is wise to avoid strenuous activities or movements that could exacerbate any potential injuries.

Understanding the Risks
Internal bleeding can manifest in various ways, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Some common signs to be aware of include:
- Abdominal Pain: This may be sharp or dull and can be localized or diffuse.

- Swelling or Distension: A feeling of fullness in the abdomen can indicate fluid accumulation.

- Changes in Vital Signs: Increased heart rate or low blood pressure can suggest significant blood loss.

- Nausea or Vomiting: This can occur due to irritation of the abdominal lining or as a response to pain.

Potential Complications
If internal bleeding is confirmed, the treatment will depend on the source and severity of the bleeding. In some cases, it may require surgical intervention to stop the bleeding and repair any damaged organs. In less severe cases, close monitoring and supportive care may be sufficient.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms following the fall warrant immediate medical evaluation to rule out internal bleeding or other serious injuries. While not all falls result in significant internal injuries, it is always better to err on the side of caution, especially when experiencing concerning symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications. Please prioritize your health and seek medical care as soon as possible.

Similar Q&A

Is It Dangerous If You Hit Your Head and Bleed Without Pain?

A family member (around 50 years old with no history of cardiovascular disease) accidentally fell this morning and hit their head against a sharp object. At the time, there was approximately enough blood to soak two tissues, but it stopped bleeding in less than five minutes. The ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Ms. Ida, You mentioned that a family member (around 50 years old, with no history of cardiovascular disease) accidentally fell this morning and hit their head against a sharp object, resulting in approximately the amount of blood that would fill two tissues, but it stopped ...

Understanding Head Injuries: Recovery and Risks After a Fall

Hello, Doctor: My husband is 33 years old. On September 24, he accidentally fell from a height of 1 meter at work and lost consciousness. While being transported to the hospital, he regained consciousness and called me to inform me that he was being taken to the hospital. He also...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
It doesn't sound too serious; just take plenty of rest and return for regular check-ups.

Understanding Delayed Bleeding Risks After a Child's Fall

Hello, doctor. My son, who is one year and ten months old, fell from his high chair onto the tile floor last night. He fell from a height of about 120 centimeters and cried immediately after the fall. We took him to a nearby surgical clinic for an X-ray, and the doctor said that ...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello! In children with mild blunt head injury, there are several factors that can affect prognosis: 1. The younger the child, the more severe the injury. 2. The higher the fall, the more severe the injury; statistically, falls from heights greater than 90 cm should be monitored,...

Does Falling Increase the Risk of Stroke in Hypertensive Patients?

I have a friend whose father had a history of hypertension. Recently, he fell and suffered a stroke. Could the fall have caused the stroke, or could it be due to another underlying condition? Thank you!

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Zhongren. 1. Stroke can be broadly classified into two main categories: hemorrhagic and ischemic. It can occur suddenly or progress gradually, leading to falls in patients. 2. Traumatic intracranial hemorrhage can result from external force or falls, and sometimes it c...