The Secondary Conditions Related to Paralysis

The Effects of Paralysis

Paralysis results from severe spinal cord damage affecting the nerves that control movement and sensation throughout the body. Sustaining a spinal cord injury often poses long-term problems with strength, sensation, and other body functions.

There are two types of spinal cord injuries:

• Complete: Nerves below the injury point no longer communicate with the brain, causing paralysis below the injury.
• Incomplete: The spinal cord can still send or receive messages from the brain with limited capacity. Some sensation and movement may still be possible below the point of injury.

Both types of spinal cord injuries could cause the following secondary conditions relating to paralysis.

Circulatory Problems

Sustaining a spinal cord injury can lead to circulatory issues and present the following complications:

• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism)
• Swelling of the extremities
• Low blood pressure (when changing from laying down to an upright position)

Bowel and Bladder Control Issues

Whether someone has complete or incomplete paralysis, the brain may not send the signals in controlling bowel and bladder functions. Lack of bladder and bowel control can lead to:

• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney infections
• Bladder stones
• Constipation
• Hemorrhoids

Pneumonia

Paralysis can make it difficult for someone to breathe and cough if the abdominal and chest muscles are affected. Because of this, someone with paralysis is at a higher risk of developing pneumonia and other lung problems.

Pressure Sores

Since paralysis causes loss of sensation and feeling, it can be difficult for the individual to know when they have sustained an injury caused by heat, cold, or pressure. This can increase the likelihood of developing pressure sores and other skin problems.

Pain

Someone with a spinal cord injury may experience muscle and joint pain since they may need to overcompensate other muscles' use. Nerve pain typically affects someone who has incomplete paralysis.

Depression

Sustaining good mental health for someone who is paralyzed can be challenging. It's common for someone who has suffered a severe spinal cord injury to be affected by depression. Some signs of depression may include:

• Feeling sad
• Feeling hopeless
• Mood swings
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

Suffered a Spinal Cord Injury? We Are Here For You.

Sustaining a spinal cord injury in an accident that caused paralyzation is a traumatic experience. And, when due to someone else's careless actions, the experience can be even more daunting.

You are not alone and have options. Our caring personal injury attorneys are here to support you during a difficult time and help you hold the responsible parties accountable. Our team of skilled attorneys will work tirelessly to defend your right to receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact Rosenberg & Rosenberg, P.A.today at (888) 499-6206 to schedule a free consultation.