Suffering from a slip and fall accident can be very dangerous, and the injuries resulting from it can be deadly. Sadly, the initial injuries are not the only dangers that are involved. A slip and fall victim may develop blood clots while trying to heal from his initial injuries.
Blood clots can be as deadly as—if not more deadly than—the initial injuries of the slip and fall accident. Because of this, it is important to recognize the signs of a blood clot, such as swelling, pain, warmth, or fatigue. It is also important to be diagnosed by your medical professional.
How a Blood Clot Forms After a Slip and Fall Accident
Blood clots can form whenever a blood vessel is damaged. For example, if you break a bone or suffer a severe bruise in a fall, then you may be at risk for developing a blood clot. This risk may be increased if you remain in the same position for extended lengths of time.
A blood clot that forms deep in the vein of the leg can be particularly dangerous. These blood clots are known as deep vein thrombosis. They can break away from the vein where they form and travel to the lungs where they could cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
Treatment for a Blood Clot After a Slip and Fall
If you have been diagnosed with blood clots, your doctor will want to begin treatment as quickly as possible.
Most likely, as a part of your treatment, you will be prescribed an anticoagulant medication, also known as a blood thinner. Some of the common types of anticoagulants used to treat blood clots are:
- Heparin. This form of blood thinner is very strong and fast-acting. It is typically administered through a needle in a vein but can also be given by injecting it under the skin. Its effects work almost instantly, and it is generally administered in a hospital setting.
- Low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWH). LMWH is very similar to heparin. This form of anticoagulant is not as strong and can be taken at home through self-injection.
- Warfarin. This anticoagulant is used as a long-term medication that is administered through pill form. It takes longer to take effect, usually five to seven days.
Additionally, your doctor may suggest other types of treatments, such as:
- Compression stockings. These tight-fitting stockings go over your legs and may prevent blood clots from forming.
- Surgery. A surgeon may insert a catheter to dissolve a clot, remove a clot, or implant a stent or inferior vena cava filter (IVC filter) to prevent pulmonary embolisms.
There are pros and cons to each treatment, and only a medical doctor can decide which treatment is right for you. Accordingly, we encourage you to see a doctor as soon as possible after any fall so that any blood clots can be diagnosed and a treatment plan can be developed.
Protect Your Legal Recovery After a Slip and Fall Blood Clot Injury
If you have sustained an injury due to a slip and fall accident, it is important to seek compensation for your damages. This includes compensation for a blood clot that was caused by your slip and fall.
Our experienced personal injury legal team might be able to help you recover financial damages if your slip and fall injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Your recovery could include compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost income, out-of-pocket costs, pain, suffering, and other damages.
To discuss your legal options call the experienced slip and fall lawyers of Hupy and Abraham today at 800-800-5678.