5 Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury

The spinal cord is a component of the central nervous system (CNS), which is responsible for coordinating nearly every bodily function. As such, spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are often catastrophic.

Across the United States, the most common causes of SCIs include motor-vehicle collisions, falls, physical violence, and sporting accidents. If you were recently involved in one of these scenarios and you’ve been experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, visit a doctor right away:

1. Paralysis

Moderate to severe spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis. If you’ve lost sensation in any part of your body—in other words, if you’re unable to feel heat, cold, or touch—you may have sustained an SCI. You may also be unable to move the affected body parts.

2. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

It’s not uncommon for people with SCIs to lose control of their bladder and bowels at least temporarily. Depending on the location and severity of the damage, though, it may be possible to regain control over these bodily functions with ongoing and intensive rehabilitation.

3. Spasms

Some people with spinal cord damage experience muscle spasms and exaggerated reflexes. Examples include involuntary twitching, jerking, and flexing.

4. Numbness

Persistent numbness or tingling, especially in the hands or feet, may be indicative of a spinal cord injury. If you’ve had such sensations in your fingers or toes since the accident, don’t underestimate their underlying cause. Schedule a comprehensive medical evaluation as soon as possible.

5. Respiratory Issues

SCIs can affect respiration. After damaging your spinal cord, you might experience difficulty breathing or you might struggle to stop coughing. You may also have trouble clearing secretions from your lungs. Do not let any such symptoms go untreated.

What Should I Do If I Think I Have a Spinal Cord Injury?

If you think you damaged your spinal cord, seek treatment immediately. For mild to moderate SCIs, prompt medical intervention may lead to a better prognosis. And for severe injuries, it could be lifesaving.

Once your health stabilizes, consider taking legal action. The damages resulting from spinal cord injuries can add up fast. Depending on the circumstances of the incident in which you were hurt, you may be able to seek compensation for such damages.

The easiest way to see if you have grounds for a claim is by consulting a seasoned personal injury attorney. After evaluating the facts of the case, a knowledgeable lawyer can help you determine the most strategic way to proceed.

Discuss Your Case with a Spinal Cord Injury Attorney in Florida

At Emerson Straw, we understand the emotional and financial toll that a spinal cord injury can take on the whole family. If you or someone you love sustained an SCI because another party failed to act with reasonable care, we will help you pursue the compensation needed to put your life back together. Call (727) 821-1500 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a spinal cord injury lawyer.