According to recent research, having atrial fibrillation, a relatively common heart rhythm disorder, could translate to higher risk if you are involved in a car accident. Atrial fibrillation refers to an irregular heartbeat or quivering heartbeat. While the research study was not able to prove a cause and effect relationship, it did indicate that this condition is linked to a higher chance of fatal injuries in the event that you are involved in a serious car crash.

Among heart rhythm disorders, atrial fibrillation is the most common in the United States. Many of the patients who are afflicted with this disorder take anti-coagulants to minimize their stroke risks, but these same medications also increase the risks of bleeding. For individuals with atrial fibrillation who were analyzed in the study, death rates were 7.6% compared to individuals without the condition who had a rate of 2.6%. Being involved in a car crash could lead to major problems for a patient with an existing heart condition.

The study analyzed bystanders, drivers, and passengers involved in vehicle crashes and admitted to the hospital for injuries between 2003 and 2012. Individuals afflicted with atrial fibrillation had an average hospital stay of nine days after a car crash, although those without the condition only had an average hospital stay of six days. If you have recently been involved in a car accident, you need to be evaluated carefully for any potential medical conditions.

Whether or not you already have a medical condition, a car accident can wreak havoc on your overall health and well-being. If you’re struggling to cope with severe injuries after an accident, you’re not alone. Many people who have chronic pain from a car accident may find that it’s impossible to recover fully. That’s where California personal injury law steps in if someone else’s recklessness caused your injuries.

After months or even years of treatment post-accident, you may reach what your doctor refers to as maximum medical improvement. This term does not necessarily mean that you’re fully recovered. Instead, it means that you have reached the best possible state of “healed”, although you may be unable to get through a day without pain or suffering. If you have sustained injuries in a serious car crash, you’re not alone.