Which signs may indicate a possible spinal injury?

Which signs may indicate a possible spinal injury?

• A. headache only
• B. breathing problems and inability to move body parts
• C. rash on skin
• D. nausea

Answer: (B)

A spinal injury often disrupts the nerves that control movement and breathing, so signs involving both motor function and respiration are strong indicators of a potential problem. Breathing problems can occur if the injury affects the nerves that control the diaphragm and chest muscles, while an inability to move parts of the body points to motor impairment from spinal cord damage. Together, these signs flag a serious condition that needs immediate medical care and spinal precautions. Headache alone, rash on the skin, or nausea are not specific signs of a spinal injury and can occur from many other causes. If you suspect a spinal injury, call for help right away, keep the person as still as possible, avoid moving their neck or spine, and monitor breathing and responsiveness.

A spinal injury often disrupts the nerves that control movement and breathing, so signs involving both motor function and respiration are strong indicators of a potential problem. Breathing problems can occur if the injury affects the nerves that control the diaphragm and chest muscles, while an inability to move parts of the body points to motor impairment from spinal cord damage. Together, these signs flag a serious condition that needs immediate medical care and spinal precautions.

Headache alone, rash on the skin, or nausea are not specific signs of a spinal injury and can occur from many other causes. If you suspect a spinal injury, call for help right away, keep the person as still as possible, avoid moving their neck or spine, and monitor breathing and responsiveness.