It’s no secret that car accidents are scary. They can cause damage to your vehicle, your bank account and to your body. If you’re not experiencing pain after an accident, there’s a sense of relief knowing you’re okay. Unfortunately, while you may believe that you have walked away from an accident unscathed, you may want to think again. Sometimes you may experience delayed symptoms after a car accident, signifying an injury that can be severe – and sometimes even life-threatening.
Here are 7 symptoms to keep an eye out for post-accident.
1. Headaches
One of the most common symptoms that people experience after involvement in a car accident is a headache. Most of the time these headaches will go away and are harmless. Unfortunately though, sometimes they can be indicative of a much more serious issue such as a blood clot or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
2. Shoulder & Neck Pain
Another one of the most common symptoms is pain in the shoulders and neck. This generally occurs due to whiplash experienced on impact. Pay attention to any stiffness, as pain that is not due to whiplash may be due to something more serious, such as a spinal injury.
3. Abdominal Pain
If you experience even minor pain around your torso or abdominal area after an accident, it should be taken very seriously. This can signal a serious, and sometimes even life-threatening, internal injury that requires immediate medical attention.
4. Back Pain
If you begin to experience back pain in the days following your accident, it could be anything from whiplash to a soft tissue injury, to a herniated disc. Numbness or tingling in your back can signify a pinched nerve. These issues can get worse with time, so you should see a doctor if you’re experiencing this type of pain.
5. Numbness
Whiplash not only causes pain, but it can also cause numbness. This occurs when there has been an injury to the nerves or the spinal column. You should be alert of any lack of feeling or sensation or tingling in your hands and arms, and you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
6. Behavioral Changes
Motor vehicle crashes are the third most common cause of TBI and the second leading cause of death from such injuries. That is why it is important to be aware of any changes in your personality, as these can be indicative of a TBI. Other indicators are issues with hearing, vision, depression or memory.
7. PTSD
PTSD, also known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a mental disorder that can occur after someone experiences a traumatic event. Although it can be difficult to notice at first, it can worsen over time and greatly affect your quality of life. If you’re experiencing PTSD you should talk to your doctor to discuss treatment options.
There May Be More Going On Than Meets The Eye
If you feel even minor pain after impact you should take it seriously as it may signify a serious injury in need of immediate medical treatment. However, since many of the delayed symptoms can have other underlying causes, it is always best to consult with your physician.
The Thumbs Up Guys® Are Here to Help After a Car Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s recklessness, our team at Floyd Hunter is here to help. Get in touch with us today by giving us a call or filling out our online form to get started on your free case review today.
