See a worker’s compensation attorney about secondary medical issues
- 1. See a worker’s compensation attorney about
secondary medical problems
Beyond your injury
Worker’s compensation attorneys know all too well that physical injuries can lead to other
serious problems. Most companies fight worker’s compensation claims, citing widespread
abuse and fraud. However, statistics show that the actual number of injured workers who are
frauds are less than 1%. Worker’s compensation is a safety net, and the average person has
goals and dreams that cannot be accomplished sitting around on limited income and physical
restrictions. That is why it is important to hire a worker’s compensation attorney to ensure
that you receive fair and expedient treatment for your condition.
Unfortunately, many injured workers wait an average of 6 months to 1 year before going to a
lawyer. Many workers never even consider an attorney until after they become frustrated
with their worker’s compensation denials and delays in their medical care. Do not wait until
you are denied benefits, and do not simply agree with the status quo because you see no
other option. In this article, we hope to create awareness that delays in treatment, or
insufficient levels of treatment can lead to secondary health issues. Your worker’s
compensation attorney will make sure that you are being fairly compensated. Consider the
following examples:
Exacerbation of high blood pressure
Delays and frustrations with the system, combined with the anxiety and stress associated
with an industrial injury. Being injured, off work, and living with significant changes in your
finances, are also potential contributing factors.
Development of diabetes
Your body’s ability to maintain normal insulin levels can be affected by certain types of
trauma, sleep disturbances, and excessive weight gain.
Sleep disturbance
Sleep disturbances can be caused by many factors, primarily as the result of stress. You can
also develop unhealthy sleep patterns as a side effect of medications, and chronic pain.
Sometimes fatigue is a byproduct of a more serious condition such as sleep apnea. If your
job deals with public safety, sleep disturbances must be addressed.
Anxiety and/or depression
The extended use of certain medications can lead to multiple problems. For example,
depression is a side effect of many pain medications. Anxiety can cause involuntary
responses such as clenching your jaws, or grinding your teeth while sleeping. This can lead
to dental issues, or chronic jaw or neck pain.
Keep your attorney informed
Medications and delayed treatment of injuries can lead to secondary health issues involving
the liver, kidneys, stomach, or heart. Your attorney knows this and can step in for you and
help you get the fair compensation and complete care that is necessary to get you back on
the job, and back to your normal lifestyle. If you, or a friend or family member has sustained