An injury can temporarily or permanently turn your life upside down. Moreover, it robs you of medical expenses, precious time, and the joy of life. Although accidents are a part of life, some common injuries are easily avoidable. When you are aware of what these injuries and their causes are, you can take the necessary steps to avoid them.
Most Common Causes of Injuries in U.S Hospitals
Injuries are one of the leading causes of fatalities in the United States among people aged between 1 and 45. Let’s take a look at some of the most common preventable injuries and their causes.
Slipping/Tripping/Falling
Falls are the most common cause of injury in the United States. Numerous conditions result in falling, such as:
- Body weakness due to poor health or lack of nutrition
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Problem maintaining balance while walking
- Use of certain medications, such as sedatives, tranquilizers, or antidepressants
- Poor footwear or foot issues
- Eyesight issues
- Household hazards, such as irregular steps, slippery bathrooms, etc.
- Confusion, memory loss, or difficulty solving problems
- Poor light
- Health issues like high blood pressure, depression, and sleep disorders
Falls are capable of causing a range of life-threatening injuries, from head wounds to spinal cord damage.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Getting struck by or against motor vehicles, such as cars, bicycles, etc., is another leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries. Red light jumping, distractions while driving, driving under the influence, speeding, and breaking traffic rules are common reasons why motor vehicles take place so often in the country.
Poisoning
Poisoning can cause serious damage to the body and can also prove to be fatal. It can be caused by inhaling, touching, injecting, or swallowing numerous chemicals, gases, venoms, or chemicals. A lot of substances like carbon monoxide and drugs are poisonous only in larger quantities. Certain cleaners are also dangerous if ingested, while others produce toxic fumes/gases.
Children are especially susceptible to even small quantities of certain chemicals and gases. If your child or loved one has swallowed or inhaled a toxic substance, or been exposed to it in any other way, call Poison Control as soon as possible.
Overexertion
Repetitive movements, prolonged effort, or sudden motions generally cause overexertion. It may also stem from an incorrect method or working in extreme temperatures. People who are overexerted tend to develop pain and fatigue and become more susceptible to injuries.
Cuts and Lacerations
Cuts are generally caused by a jagged object such as glass, a knife, or even a sharp sheet of paper. On the other hand, lacerations are deep cuts or tears in the skin. Cuts and lacerations are quite common, but children are more prone to cuts due to their young and sensitive skin. Older people with delicate skin due to certain illnesses are also more likely to get scrapes and cuts.
Bites and Stings
Bites and stings are yet another leading cause of injury in the United States. Bites caused by mites, fleas, and mosquitos are more likely to cause itching, whereas spider and insect bites lead to more death due to venom reactions.
Burns
There are different types of burns caused by chemical, electrical, radiation, or thermal contact. External heat sources, such as scalding liquids, hot metals, flames, and steam, cause thermal burns. Burns are quite common in households where chemicals, hot tools, and electric equipment surround people. Burns can also be caused by overexposure to the sun, but that is not a very common occurrence.
Sports Injuries
Sports injuries are normally caused by a direct impact, overuse, or the application of force that the body is unable to handle. Common sports injuries include sprains, cuts and scrapes, dehydration, strains, nose bleeds, bruises, and joint injuries.
Foreign Body Injuries
A foreign body is something that gets stuck inside you but isn’t supposed to. Foreign body injuries are caused by swallowing or inhaling a foreign body and are more common in children who often put things in their noses, ears, and mouths. Coins, batteries, and jagged objects are common examples of foreign bodies that are ingested and pose a threat to your health.
Get in Touch with a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you ever fall victim to an injury caused by a third party, such as a car accident or general negligence, it is best to contact a personal injury lawyer in your area. These professionals provide legal representation to people involved in an accident and can help you receive the financial compensation you deserve. These funds are normally needed to pay for medical care, compensate for lost earnings, suffering, and pain, and offer compensation for the injuries sustained.
