Acute compartment syndrome can cause swift and extreme muscle swelling that may ultimately slice through the skin. This condition is typically associated with a very traumatic injury. In fact, bites from a venomous snake were recently recorded as one cause of Acute Compartment Syndrome. However, this can happen as a result of any traumatic issue. This is a very painful condition that impacts groupings of blood vessels, nerves and muscles in the arms and legs, referred to as compartments.

That is according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. During the development of ACS, the pressure will build up inside the muscle compartment quickly, ultimately blocking any blood from getting to and from the damaged site. The muscle and all of the other tissue in that area will not get any nutrients and will ultimately start dying. Irreversible muscle damage can even occur within just 4 to 12 hours. This is usually associated with a high impact injury known as a crush injury, like a motorcycle accident or a car accident. It can also occur from minor trauma associated with taking something like blood thinning medication. These issues can develop into serious medical conditions immediately.

A diagnosis from a medical professional needs to occur as soon as possible to decrease the chances that someone will have to cope with significant muscle death and its resulting problems. Getting medical attention immediately after a motorcycle or a car accident is extremely important to verify exactly what injuries you have sustained. It is not always possible to tell what injuries you are facing with a naked eye and a review by a medical professional can be important if you have acute compartment syndrome.