Internal Bleeding Signs and Symptoms
Internal hemorrhages are quite difficult to identify, as the bleeding is not evident from outside, and additionally, the symptoms can appear when the affected individual has already lost a considerable amount of blood. The signs and symptoms of internal bleeding also depend on the extent of bleeding and its location. Nevertheless, the following are some common signs and symptoms that one can experience depending on the location of the bleeding.
Symptoms of Intracranial Bleeding
Bleeding inside the skull can affect mental or cognitive functions of the affected individual. Intracranial or brain hemorrhages are usually caused by a trauma to the head, high blood pressure, brain tumors, bursting of aneurysms, and abnormalities of the blood vessels. This condition can produce the following symptoms:
✧ Sudden and severe headaches
✧ Seizures
✧ Nausea and vomiting
✧ Loss of balance and coordination
✧ Loss of consciousness
Sometimes, this condition can produce stroke-like symptoms, such as weakness in an arm or leg, slurred speech, and loss of vision.
Symptoms of Intra-abdominal Bleeding
The most common symptom of bleeding in the abdominal region is pain. If the spilled blood accumulates in the peritoneum, one can experience severe pain with movement, and additionally, the abdomen may feel hard or rigid. If a significant amount of blood is lost due to intra-abdominal bleeding, then the affected individual can experience:
✧ Weakness
✧ Dizziness or lightheadedness
✧ Shortness of breath
✧ A drop in blood pressure
Gastrointestinal bleeding can produce the following symptoms:
✧ Black and tarry stool
✧ Red or coffee-colored vomit
Sometimes, intra-abdominal bleeding can produce symptoms like bruising as well. An example is Cullen's sign, which can be distinguished as a superficial bruising or yellow-blue discoloration around the umbilicus. Another example is Grey-Turner sign, which is also a type of bruising that appears on the flanks, and looks like bluish discoloration of the skin.
Bleeding of the Urinary Tract
Internal bleeding of the urinary tract can occur in the kidneys, urinary bladder, or any other part of the urinary tract. This condition is usually caused by bladder or urinary tract infections, but occasionally, people receiving radiation therapy can also develop inflammation of the bladder wall and bleeding. The classic symptom of bleeding in the urinary tract is hematuria or presence of blood in urine. If a large amount of blood is lost, it can lead to shock.
Bleeding within Muscles and Joints
Internal bleeding occurring deep within the muscles can produce intense pain, difficulty in moving the joint near the injury, and loss of sensation. Internal bleeding in the joints can also cause severe pain, and a loss of range of motion.
A few other common symptoms of internal hemorrhages are:
✧ Blood coming from the mouth, nose, or ears
✧ Spitting or coughing up blood
✧ Cold and clammy skin
✧ Paleness
✧ Weak pulse
✧ Shock