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Heavy internal bleeding may occur in the abdominal cavity, chest cavity, digestive tract, or tissues surrounding broken large bones, such as the thigh bone (femur) and pelvis.
Initially, internal bleeding itself causes no symptoms, although an injured organ that is bleeding is often painful. However, the person may be distracted from this pain by other injuries or may be unable to express pain because of confusion, drowsiness, or unconsciousness. Eventually, internal bleeding usually becomes apparent. For example, blood in the digestive tract may be vomited or passed from the rectum. Extensive blood loss causes low blood pressure, making the person feel weak and dizzy. The person may faint when standing or even sitting and, if blood pressure is very low, lose consciousness.
First-Aid Treatment
A lay person cannot stop internal bleeding. If extensive bleeding causes light-headedness or symptoms of shock (see Shock), the person should be laid down and the legs elevated. Medical assistance should be summoned as quickly as possible.
Last full review/revision August 2007 by Justin L. Kaplan, MD
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