\Our nerves serve as our communication lines, transmitting vital messages between the brain and every part of our body. They enable us to experience sensations, control movements, and perform complex tasks.
However, an encounter with a dangerous dog can change the pathways of your nerves forever. Nerve damage from a dog bite can alter your life in profound ways, impacting your ability to work, engage in daily activities, or even perform simple tasks that were once taken for granted.
Symptoms of Nerve Damage
Nerve damage occurs when the body’s nerve fibers are injured or severed, interrupting the signals between the brain and other parts of the body. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, which may include:
- Loss of sensation or numbness in the affected area
- Sharp, burning, or shooting pain
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Tingling or prickling sensations
- Difficulty controlling muscle movements
Types of Nerve Damage Caused by Dog Bites
When dogs bite, their sharp teeth can puncture the skin and compress or damage the underlying tissues. This can lead to multiple forms of nerve damage, depending on the severity of the attack. Below are the three main types associated with dog bites:
- Neurapraxia: This is the least severe form of nerve damage, usually resulting from the nerve being compressed. Symptoms might include a temporary loss of sensation or motor function, lasting from hours to months. Most victims of neurapraxia recover fully with proper medical care.
- Axonotmesis: More severe than neurapraxia, axonotmesis occurs when nerves are severely stretched. This type of damage may cause paralysis, although it is often temporary. Recovery is possible but can take a significant amount of time.
- Neurotmesis: The most serious type of nerve damage, neurotmesis occurs when a nerve is completely severed or so badly damaged it cannot repair itself. Victims may suffer from permanent loss of sensation or function. In some cases, surgery and long-term rehabilitation may help restore some degree of function.
The Long-Term Impact of Nerve Damage
The long-term impact of nerve damage, resulting from a dog bite or any other injury, extends far beyond the immediate physical harm. The aftermath of the attack can profoundly affect your quality of life, emotional well-being, and financial stability.
Physically, nerve damage can lead to chronic pain that persists long after the initial injury has healed. This can be debilitating, limiting your mobility and daily activities. Emotionally, the constant struggle with pain and physical limitations can take a toll on your mental health. The cost of ongoing medical treatment, including surgery, medication, and physical therapy, can accumulate, placing a significant financial burden on you and your family.
How To Recover Compensation for Dog Bite-Related Nerve Damage in Washington
If you suffered nerve damage due to a serious dog bite, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Washington is a strict liability state regarding dog bites, meaning that dog owners are responsible for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior. In these situations, you have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
To protect your rights, you need a Auburn dog bite lawyer on your side. An attorney can guide you through the claims process and help you hold the dog owner accountable. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about your legal options and take your first steps toward recovery.