What To Do If You Fall Down The Stairs

Falling down a staircase is a surprisingly common accident, and while it can be embarrassing, it can also lead to injuries that require a trip to the hospital and, unfortunately, even fatalities. However, knowing what to do if you fall down the stairs can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury and ensure a more effective recovery.

In this blog post, we’ll cover points such as how to assess your injuries and manage pain to when you should see a doctor. We’ll also provide some tips on preventing future falls down the stairs to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

What Should I Do Immediately After Falling Down The Stairs?

Falling down the stairs can be a startling and potentially serious accident. Knowing how to react immediately after the fall can be vital for minimising any injuries and ensuring you receive proper care which will help with your recovery. Here’s what you should do right after the fall:

Stay Calm & Assess The Situation

First and foremost, try to remain calm and assess your situation. Can you move without severe pain? Is there an immediate danger, such as a fire or a risk of falling further? If you’re alone, consider your ability to reach your phone to call for help. Assessing your injuries and surroundings carefully can help you decide the next best steps and prevent any further harm.

Treating Your Injuries

If you are not seriously hurt and you can move, only do so with caution. If you suspect you’ve suffered a fracture, try to stay still and stabilise the injured part of your body. For minor injuries like bruises or mild strains or sprains, simple first aid should be fine for now:

• Rest – Avoid putting weight on the injured area.
• Ice – Apply ice or a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain. Wrap the ice in a towel to protect your skin and apply it for 20 minutes every hour as needed.
• Compression – Use an elastic bandage for compression to help reduce swelling. Be sure not to wrap it too tightly, as this can cause further damage.
• Elevation – Elevate the injured area to decrease swelling.

It’s important to note that falls can be particularly dangerous for the elderly, often resulting in more serious injuries such as hip fractures or serious head trauma due to weaker bones and reduced overall mobility. If you’re an elderly person who has fallen down the stairs, it is best to go to the hospital so you can be properly assessed even if think you’re only mildly injured.

Another consideration is that if a child has fallen down the stairs they may not always articulate their pain accurately. Therefore, look for signs such as reluctance to move, excessive crying, or unusual behaviour. Head injuries in children require particular attention due to the potential for serious complications.

When To Call For Emergency Help After A Stair Fall

It’s important to know when a fall down the stairs requires more than just simple first-aid or home remedies. If you are in significant pain or suspect a serious injury, call for help. Shout out for anybody nearby if you’re unable to reach a phone yourself and then call 999 for the emergency services if:

• You can’t move without intense pain.
• You suspect you have broken bones, especially in your back, neck, or hips.
• You’re experiencing a tingling sensation or numbness, particularly in your limbs or back.
• You experience difficulty breathing or severe pain in your chest.
• There is heavy bleeding that won’t stop.
• You hit your head and feel dizzy, nauseous, or lose consciousness.

Even if you feel ok, keep an eye on your symptoms as some injuries, like a concussion or internal bleeding, might not be immediately apparent. When in doubt, it’s always better to consult with a medical professional rather than risk an injury worsening.

Have Your Injuries Assessed By A Medical Professional

After addressing the immediate concerns following a fall down the stairs, you should still consider getting your injuries assessed by a medical professional and follow any recommended treatment. Therefore, if you have:

• Non-urgent injuries that need attention, see your general practitioner (GP) who can provide a thorough check-up and direct you to further care if necessary.
• Severe or potentially life-threatening injuries, head directly to A&E. If you’re unable to get yourself there safely, don’t hesitate to call an ambulance.

During your visit, provide a detailed account of how and when you fell down the stairs and the symptoms you’re experiencing. This information will help your doctor better understand the potential injuries and decide on the necessary diagnostics, like X-rays or MRIs.

How To Recover From A Fall Down The Stairs

Following your doctor’s recommendations should ensure a smooth recovery from your fall down the stairs and reduce the risk of any lasting damage. This might include:

• Taking prescribed pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and swelling.
• Attending any recommended follow-up appointments to ensure your injuries are healing properly.
• Getting physiotherapy for injuries involving the muscles, joints, or bones to restore movement and strength.
• Allowing your body time to heal by resting and gradually returning to your normal activities based on your GP’s advice.

It’s important to listen to your doctor and not rush the process so you have a safer and more effective return to your daily life.

How Can I Prevent Further Falls Down Stairs At Home?

Ensuring your stairs are safe for all doesn’t have to feel like a safety drill; it’s all about making small, smart changes to prevent accidents from happening again.

First off, good lighting can make a huge difference. It’s surprising how much safer your stairs can feel when they’re well-lit. Try adding some lights at the top and bottom, and maybe a night light to guide the way when it’s dark.

Handrails are your best friends on the stairs. If you haven’t got them already, installing sturdy rails on both sides of your staircase can really help, especially for the elderly. Make sure they’re solid and at a good height for everyone in your home, from your kids to your grandparents. And if your stairs are not carpeted and a bit slippery, sticking on some non-slip treads can give everyone more confidence as they go up and down.

Another simple tip is to keep your stairs clear of clutter. It’s easy to leave a couple of things on the steps to take up or down later, but even small objects can be a tripping hazard so try to keep them completely clear.

For those with little ones or elderly family members, consider adding some extra features like safety gates at the top and bottom of the stairs. These gates can prevent falls and also give you peace of mind.

Lastly, encourage everyone at home to take their time on the stairs and avoid distractions. A gentle reminder to hold the handrail and not to text while using the stairs can go a long way in preventing unnecessary trips and falls.

By making simple changes, you can make your staircase safer for everybody.