Symptoms of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms to Be Aware of After Auto Accidents

Auto accidents can cause occupants to be thrown around or come in contact with objects inside the vehicle that can cause harm. For example, many drivers hit the steering wheel in crashes. When this happens, it is possible that an injury to the abdomen can occur.

When a person suffers an intense blow to the abdomen, it can cause weakness in the wall of the aorta. When damage to the aorta happens from blunt trauma, it is possible that an abdominal aortic aneurysm can occur.

What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The aorta extends from the heart, through the chest, and into the abdomen. The goal of the aorta is to deliver oxygen to all parts of the body, as it is the largest artery. When the walls of the aorta are damaged, an aneurysm can occur. When this damage happens in the abdominal part of the aorta, an abdominal aortic aneurysm is often the result.

Some of the Symptoms Associated with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

The most common type of aneurysm to occur, aortic aneurysms can go undiagnosed. This is because an aneurysm can slowly develop over many years and have no symptoms in its early stage; however, an injury to the aorta can also cause an aneurysm to quickly expand and rupture—causing a medical emergency due to massive internal bleeding.

Because a crash can be violent in nature, it is possible that the impact of a crash can cause an aneurysm to burst. This is why it is critical that you are aware of the signs and symptoms of an aortic aneurysm so that you can seek medical attention immediately.

If an aneurysm ruptures, the following symptoms can arise suddenly:

• Pain in the abdomen or back
• Dizziness
• Clammy skin and heavy sweating
• Pale skin
• Rapid heart rate
• Falling blood pressure
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
• Fainting or loss of consciousness

If you have some of these symptoms, it is critical that you seek emergency medical attention and ask for tests that can detect an abdominal aneurysm, such as a CT scan, x-ray, or abdominal ultrasound. When an aneurysm is caught in its early stages, it can be monitored or surgery may be necessary to repair it prior to it bursting. Ruptured aortic aneurysms can be life-threatening.

If you suffered an abdominal aortic aneurysm, or your loved one died as a result of one, due to another driver’s negligence, you need to seek the advice of a personal injury lawyer. For a free consultation, please contact us today at (301) 942-9118.