Electricity is a powerful force that surrounds people in their daily lives and at work, powering buildings and appliances. However, when a construction job or work on wires goes awry, the physical consequences can be dire.
One of the most immediate and painful outcomes of an electrical mishap is electrocution. This injury can lead to life-long medical bills, which means looking into workers’ compensation is important.
First feelings of pain
Electrocution begins with a sudden and intense jolt that courses through the body. This initial shock is like a lightning bolt striking within, sending signals through the nervous system at an alarming speed.
Nerves cannot work properly as the electrical current disrupts their normal function. The result is a surge of pain from the point of contact that radiates throughout the entire body. A person may not realize the long-term health complications that can come from the initial shock if they do not seek medical help as soon as possible.
Muscles in turmoil
As the electrical current travels through the body, it wreaks havoc on the muscular system. Muscles convulse uncontrollably during electrocution.
The pain is not just confined to the surface. It penetrates deep within the body. Depending on the strength of the current, whether the skin was damp and how long the current hurt the individual, they could face heart problems and seizures after the shock.
Burns and tissue damage
The path of the electrical current can cause severe burns as it meets resistance in the body. The skin, acting as a barrier, may suffer visible damage in the form of burns and blisters. These burns could come from fire after the shock or the electric current itself.
Long-term aftermath
Even after someone in the area shuts off the unsafe electrical source, the pain can persist. Survivors of electrocution often report lingering discomfort, tingling sensations and muscle soreness. Hurt individuals may even suffer from cataracts. In some cases, long-term damage to the nervous system and muscles can result in chronic pain and medical treatments, further emphasizing the lasting impact of this traumatic experience.
Electrocution is not just a momentary shock, but a painful and complex assault on the human body. This means employers need to prioritize safety measures to prevent the potentially devastating effects of electrocution.