When you call a construction accident lawyer to discuss your internal injury, such as a ruptured spleen injury, is up to you. Some people make the call on the day they are hurt, while others wait to see just how severe the injury is and how long and costly the recovery will be. While there is no specific time that is right for everyone, there are some reasons to consider calling an attorney as soon as possible.
Why a Ruptured Spleen Is So Dangerous
The spleen sits just under the left ribs, on the upper left side of the abdomen. Its job is to filter blood, remove old blood cells, and help the body fight infection.
A ruptured spleen means the organ’s outer covering tears or lacerates, often after a forceful blow or impact to the left side of the abdomen. This may happen on construction sites after a fall, a heavy object strike, or a collapse of scaffolding or materials.
When the spleen tears, it can leak blood into the abdominal cavity. That bleeding can be slow or rapid. Either way, it can be life-threatening if not caught and treated quickly.
What to Watch For: Symptoms and Warning Signs of Ruptured Spleen
After a construction accident, it’s vital to know the warning signs of a possible spleen rupture. Common symptoms include:
- Sharp or increasing pain in the upper left abdomen. This may feel like a deep ache or stabbing pain in the area under the ribs.
- Tenderness to the touch on the left side. Pressing gently may cause pain or discomfort.
- Pain radiating to the left shoulder (Kehr's sign). This pain is common and worsens with deep breaths or lying down.
- Lightheadedness or fainting. These may be signs of internal bleeding and blood loss.
- Rapid heart rate, pale skin, or sweating. These are symptoms of shock.
- Abdominal swelling. Internal bleeding may cause abdominal distension or a feeling of tightness.
In some cases, symptoms may appear immediately after injury. However, delayed splenic rupture, where symptoms appear hours or even days after the initial injury, is also possible. That’s why early evaluation is so critical.
How Doctors Diagnose and Treat a Spleen Rupture
In the emergency room, doctors will examine your abdomen and may use imaging tests like an ultrasound or a CT scan to confirm internal bleeding or splenic damage.
If bleeding is minimal, you may not need surgery. If your vitals are stable and the tear is small, rest and monitoring may allow the spleen to heal naturally.
However, if the bleeding is severe, then emergency intervention may be necessary. Doctors may perform embolization to stop the bleeding or proceed with a splenectomy (removal of the spleen). Even with successful surgery, follow-up care is essential. People who’ve had their spleen removed are more vulnerable to certain infections and may require vaccines and long-term monitoring.
Why a Ruptured Spleen Often Means Long Recovery for Construction Workers
For construction workers, recovery from a ruptured spleen can take weeks or months. Returning to full-duty work, especially tasks that involve lifting, climbing, or operating machinery, may not be possible immediately.
Recovery challenges may include:
- Ongoing pain or fatigue. Even after healing, energy levels may be low for some time.
- Immune system changes. Without a spleen, you're more vulnerable to infections, especially those caused by certain bacteria.
- Limited lifting or movement. Returning to heavy labor too early can lead to setbacks or complications.
Lost wages, medical bills, and uncertainty about the future can quickly accumulate and lead to emotional and financial stress.
Why to Call a Construction Attorney Soon After Your Accident
If you call a construction accident lawyer soon after you are hurt, then you can:
- Stop wondering whether you should make the call. You can remove uncertainty and stress from your life by consulting a lawyer.
- Make sure your rights are protected. You can learn about your rights and ensure you are taking all necessary steps to hold the responsible parties liable and protect your future.
- Make sure you don’t make any mistakes. You can learn about common mistakes people make and take appropriate actions to avoid making the same mistakes yourself. This may include, for example, waiting too long to file a claim or trying to negotiate with an insurance company on your own.
There is no downside to contacting a lawyer early. If the lawyer believes you have a claim worth pursuing, you can get started right away. Alternatively, if the attorney believes you should wait, they will tell you that.
What to Do Next If You’ve Suffered a Spleen Injury on the Job
A ruptured spleen isn’t just a medical crisis. It can be a legal and financial turning point. If you’re a construction worker dealing with this kind of injury, you can:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Tell your employer right away—and get it in writing
- Document your symptoms, treatment, and time missed from work
A ruptured spleen can change your health, livelihood, and future, but we are here to help.
