Internal bleeding symptoms can be very worrisome, but because of their nature they may often be overlooked or attributed to another cause.

The particular symptoms associated with internal bleeding differ depending on the location of the bleed within the body.

Two common locations of internal bleeding include gastrointestinal bleeding and bleeding in the brain, also known as a brain hemorrhage.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding Symptoms

Some gastrointestinal bleeding symptoms may be common to a number of conditions, while others will be quite obvious and raise concern. It is important to note that feeling “off” without the sight of blood may be an indication of a gastrointestinal bleed and warrants further examination.

The following symptoms are indicative of a gastrointestinal bleed:

• Stomach pain
• Shortness of breath
• Less urine output
• Fast heartbeat
• Pale skin and gums
• Confusion
• Clammy skin
• Extreme fatigue, weakness or lightheadedness
• Dry mouth and increased thirst
• Vomiting blood (shades of red or black) or vomit that resembles coffee grounds
• Bloody or black bowel movements

Gastrointestinal bleeding is a medical emergency and patients should seek immediate medical attention.

Brain Hemorrhage Symptoms

Symptoms of a brain bleed, like those of gastrointestinal bleeding, may also appear to be non-specific to the situation but are incredibly important to not ignore.

These symptoms include:

• Headache
• Lethargy or confusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Speech difficulty
• Loss of vision (usually temporary)
• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
• Seizures or loss of consciousness

As with gastrointestinal bleeding, internal bleeding in the brain also requires immediate medical attention, as it is a medical emergency.

What Might Cause Internal Bleeding?

In general internal bleeding is caused when there is damage to an artery or a vein, and instead of staying in the blood vessel, blood begins to collect inside the body.

One of the main risks of developing internal bleeding complications is the use of anticoagulant medications. These medications are used to thin the blood in order to prevent blood clots and strokes, but they can also lead to an abnormal bleeding response.

Pradaxa is one such anticoagulant medication that can cause internal bleeding. With anticoagulant use, a minor injury can lead to a significant amount of bleeding that remains uncontrolled.

Because anticoagulants, like Pradaxa, work by blocking the proteins in the blood responsible for clotting, the body cannot form a clot to stop the bleed on its own as it does in individuals who are not on blood thinning medication.

Patients taking Pradaxa or any other anticoagulant medication should be extra vigilant when it comes to monitoring potential symptoms of internal bleeding.

Filing a Pradaxa Internal Bleeding Lawsuit

If you are a loved one has suffered from internal bleeding due to the use of Pradaxa you may be able to file an internal bleeding lawsuit.

Plaintiffs who have suffered gastrointestinal bleeding, brain hemorrhage or any other internal bleeding have alleged that Pradaxa’s manufacturer did not do enough to warn patients and physicians of the potential side effects and risks of the drug.

Patients who think they may be eligible can consult with a Pradaxa attorney at no cost and can decide if filing a Pradaxa internal bleeding lawsuit is their best option.