Falls and Injuries

Falls are common and caused by a variety of conditions that are both internal and external. Most falls don’t result in a serious injury, but in some cases, they can lead to broken bones, especially if you have a medical condition that specifically affects and weakens the bones. As well,Brain injuries are a major concern, as well, if you hit your head in a fall

A fall is more likely to happen when:

• The lighting is dark and makes it difficult to navigate
• Rugs and carpets aren’t sufficiently secured to the floor
• The surface is wet or slippery, such as on a newly-mopped floor or icy sidewalk

Falls can often happen when people are going down stairs or trying to lift heavy objects. Sometimes, falls happen at night when people are tired and making their way to the bathroom, or while working around the house and climbing a ladder.

Delayed treatment of injuries sustained in a fall can often lead to long-term complications and disability, making prompt medical attention at Village Emergency Centers a good idea.

People with underlying medical conditions and weakened immune systems are more vulnerable and likely to fall.

Older people are also more likely to fall since they often have balance problems, muscle weakness, poor vision, and other long-term health complications that can lead to cognitive impairment, dizziness, and even a brief loss of consciousness.

A large portion of the elderly population also takes prescribed medications that can trigger secondary injuries after a fall, such as bleeding in the head from medications designed to reduce blood clotting.

Certain medical conditions — such as osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions — can make falls particularly dangerous, since bones are much more likely to be fragile and break.

If your head sustained any trauma in a fall or accident, and you experience any of the following symptoms, call 9-1-1 or visit the Village Emergency Centers right away, any hour, day or night:

• Headache
• Ringing in your ears
• Balance or coordination challenges
• Inability to focus or see properly
• Fluid leaking from your ear or nose
• Loss of consciousness
• Memory loss
• Mood changes
• Reduced muscle control
• Seizures
• Unusual eye movements
• Vomiting