Getting injured during an accident brings about a tremendous impact on the victim and their loved ones. Aside from the immediate medical bills and pain, some injuries may have long-term complications that continue affecting how the victim leads their life.
Spinal injuries rank among the most serious of injuries, often resulting in long-term complications that impact a person’s quality of life. These complications may include the following.
1. Respiratory problems
Injuries to the spinal cord, particularly those at the cervical level, can compromise the muscles needed for breathing. This can result in difficulty breathing, reduced lung capacity and a higher risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia. Some individuals may require long-term ventilator support to assist with breathing.
2. Bladder and bowel issues
Due to the disruption of nerve signals, spinal cord injuries often lead to bladder and bowel dysfunction. This can result in incontinence, urinary retention, frequent urinary tract infections and constipation. Managing these issues typically requires the use of catheters, bowel management programs and medications, which can add to the daily problems faced by those with spinal cord injuries.
3. Chronic pain
Many spinal cord injury victims suffer from chronic pain, caused by nerve damage, muscle spasms and pressure sores. This persistent pain can be debilitating and difficult to manage, significantly impacting the individual’s ability to engage in daily activities.
4. Sensation loss and mobility problems
The most common long-term effect of spinal cord injuries is the loss of sensation and mobility. Individuals may experience partial or complete paralysis below the injury site. This can result in difficulties with movement, balance and coordination, necessitating the use of wheelchairs, assistive devices and extensive home modifications. Sensation loss can lead to secondary complications such as pressure sores and injuries due to the inability to feel pain or temperature changes.
Victims can consider pursuing a personal injury claim to seek compensation, and legal guidance can prove invaluable during this process.