You were involved in a four-car pileup on 247 a few days ago and suffered broken ribs, a broken leg, and a concussion. The doctors at Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center are confident you’ll make a full recovery, but are concerned you may develop another condition: compartment syndrome.
Compartment syndrome is a painful condition in which pressure builds in a muscle compartment and can lead to muscle or nerve damage and problems with blood flow. This dangerous condition often occurs along with fractures, and since you have several, you may be prone to developing it. Knowing the symptoms could help you seek treatment before the condition becomes extremely painful or even life-threatening.
The Symptoms of Compartment Syndrome
There are three types of compartment syndrome and each has its own distinct characteristics.
- Acute compartment syndrome. This type of compartment syndrome typically develops a few hours after the injury occurs. Those with the condition may experience swelling, tightness, and bruising; pain that seems greater than expected for the type of injury; numbness, pins and needles, or electric-like pain; and a new and persistent deep pain.
- Chronic compartment syndrome. Also called exertional compartment syndrome, the symptoms of this condition typically include cramping and worsening aching, often in the thigh, buttock, or lower leg, within a half hour of beginning exercise. This condition can feel like shin splints, and is often confused with the injury.
- Abdominal compartment syndrome. This condition typically develops in people who are hospitalized and critically ill. Since they usually cannot describe their symptoms, doctors are often on the lookout for a tense and swollen abdomen, low blood pressure, wincing when the abdomen is touched, and urine output that slows down or stops.
Tavss Fletcher Wants to Help You Seek Compensation
Suffering from compartment syndrome can mean extended hospital stays, frequent trips to the doctor, thorough testing, and expensive medication. All of this medical attention can result in thousands of dollars in bills. If the accident that caused the injuries wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to financial compensation that can help to cover the costs.
The legal professionals of Tavss Fletcher may be able to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how.
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