If you are involved in a severe car accident, you likely felt the impact of the airbag, seat belt, or shoulder strap that protected you from an impact with your front windshield. However, it is important to note that these safety tools can actually cause a life-threatening injury called an aortic dissection. The force of these protective safety tools impact the chest, a life-threatening condition may occur.

Understanding Aortic Dissection

The aorta is an artery arising from the heart’s lower left chamber. It actually rises up out of the very top part of the heart and then bends downwards. The smaller part that bends is called the isthmus and is much weaker than the rest of the artery. When this section is damaged through ruptures or tears, it can cause an aortic dissection, which is a life-threatening condition that needs immediate medical attention.

Dangers of Aortic Dissection

An aortic dissection is always considered a life-threatening emergency. The development of this medical condition may result in serious damage including damage to the heart, a stroke, organ failure, or even death. If you were involved in a serious car accident, you should immediately seek medical attention in order to have a medical professional evaluate whether or not you are at risk for an aortic dissection based on the facts and circumstances of your car accident.

Symptoms of Aortic Dissection

The most common symptoms of aortic dissection include the following:

  • Pain in the chest
  • Fainting
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty walking or speaking
  • Leg pain
  • Nausea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating
  • Weakness
  • Anxiety
  • Rapid weak pulse
  • Any symptoms that appear similar to a heart attack or stroke

Nearly 40% of all patients die immediately from an aortic dissection, however, if a car accident victim does not die, they should seek medical evaluation as soon as possible, as the risk of dying increases by as much as 3% every hour without treatment. Contact 911 or visit an emergency room after an accident if you suspect that you may have an aortic dissection or other injuries as a result of your car accident.

Reach Out to Us Today for Help

If you suffered an aortic dissection as a result of a car accident, you may have many other injuries as well. You are likely facing substantial medical bills along with continued Medical Treatments. You likely are unable to return to work due to the seriousness of your injuries resulting in lost wages. Additionally, you may have continued pain and suffering as some of your medical conditions may be permanent requiring frequent medical treatments, medications, or other types of therapy. If you suffered an aortic dissection in a car accident, or any other kind of injury, contact an experienced  personal injury attorney at O’Donnell Law Offices at 570-821-5717 or online today. We proudly serve clients in Kingston, Wilkes Barre, Hazleton, and Pittston.

https://www.odonnell-law.com/2020/07/21/car-accidents-and-traumatic-brain-injury/

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