How long should swelling last after an injury?
Personal Injury - December 6, 2023
When an injury occurs, the body minimizes damage, sending white blood cells into the area to protect it. This can lead to swelling. Swelling is very common after an injury and can last for an extensive amount of time, depending on the injury.
At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, our Chicago personal injury attorney has specific experience helping clients facing injuries that result in long-term or severe swelling. Let us talk to you about your accident and what legal rights you may have if someone else caused it. We can connect you with medical experts to answer how long swelling should last after an injury.
How long should swelling last after an injury?
After a car accident or similar incident, swelling in a damaged area will appear within a few hours. It may last a few days after that, depending on the treatment level needed and the type of care provided. Sometimes, this swelling, called edema, may last for several weeks.
Severe swelling results from injuries such as contusions developing under the skin. If you suffer a head injury, you may have life-threatening swelling inside the skull, which must be treated immediately.
Why does swelling happen after an accident?
There are multiple reasons why swelling occurs after an injury. Your body’s immune system sends in extra fluid and white blood cells to repair the damage in the area. This works to fight off infections and protect the area from additional risks. Ultimately, the added fluid, blood, and nutrients delivered to the area will speed up recovery.
Over time, your body’s natural waste removal system begins to move out the white blood cells from damaged areas with the support of that extra fluid. This allows the swelling to reduce quickly, although the time needed depends on the medical care you receive and the severity of the injury.
What should I do if my swelling not improving after an accident?
When you have swelling at an injury site, pay close attention to what is occurring and why. If your skin feels warm to the touch or some areas seem to continue to swell, you may need additional medical help. When swelling continues for over a few days, your doctor may need to determine if the injury is healing or if constant bleeding could cause further injury. Most often, rest, ice, and compression will reduce swelling.
Who could be held responsible for your injuries?
If you were in a car accident, bike accident, or another incident where you suffered a severe injury and swelling, visit a medical professional right away. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses if another person is at fault. Scheduling a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer can give you answers from a trained and experienced professional to determine if you have a valid claim. You can then decide how to pursue your case.
Let our personal injury attorneys offer you the guidance you need
Contact Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates now for guidance on your right to compensation after a car accident or injury brought on by another party. Long-term swelling can be complicated and may lead to additional health risks. For that reason, get the medical care you need now and then contact our personal injury attorneys for a free consultation by calling (800) 985-1819 to find out how we can help you recoup those losses.
