Simon & Gilman, LLP

Jan 18, 2023

On Behalf of Simon & Gilman, LLP | Aug 3, 2022 | Slip, Trip And Fall |

Slipping, tripping or falling in a store can be awkward and embarrassing, so it may be tempting to jump up quickly, brush yourself off and act like the accident never happened. Still, because a slip-and-fall accident can leave you with injuries that are both catastrophic and life-changing, you should never treat a fall cavalierly.

Following a slip-and-fall accident, it is advisable to go to the emergency room for a full examination. If you hate hospitals or do not have the budget for emergency treatment, you must closely monitor yourself for signs of injury. Among others, you never should ignore a runny nose after a slip-and-fall accident.

A runny nose is a bad sign

If you have a runny nose after a slip-and-fall accident, you may have a cerebrospinal fluid leak. This type of leak happens when the thin membranes that hold cerebrospinal fluid in place rupture. Often, a runny nose is the first symptom of a cerebrospinal fluid leak.

Cerebrospinal fluid leaks are dangerous

Cerebrospinal fluid delivers nutrients to your brain while removing potentially toxic waste byproducts. If too much of this fluid leaks, you may suffer brain damage or a stroke. Moreover, according to the Cleveland Clinic, a cerebrospinal fluid leak makes you vulnerable to serious brain infections.

Your condition is treatable

Luckily, doctors have several options for repairing cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Like with other traumatic brain injuries, though, your prognosis probably depends on receiving prompt treatment. If you wait, your treatable condition may become more difficult to cure.

Ultimately, even though going to the hospital can be expensive, you may be eligible for significant financial compensation to help you obtain the critical care you need to recover fully.