After experiencing a car accident, it's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed with all the tasks that lie ahead. From speaking with insurance companies to repairing your vehicle, there's a lot to take care of. However, it's crucial to remember that some injuries may not present themselves immediately.
Delayed signs of injury can arise days or even weeks after the accident. This is why it's important to keep an eye out for any physical or emotional changes in the days and weeks following the incident. Being aware of these delayed symptoms can help not only with your physical well-being but also ensure that you receive the appropriate care for your injuries.
Numbness
Whiplash is a common injury that many people experience, especially in car accidents. While most people associate whiplash with neck and shoulder pain, there is another manifestation of this disorder: numbness.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) whiplash associated disorder is triggered by an accident such as a motor vehicle accident. The condition can cause a lack of sensation or tingling in your hands and arms, which can be alarming and uncomfortable. This occurs due to damage to the nerves in the spinal column. It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of whiplash, including numbness, to ensure proper treatment and prevent further injury.
Headache
Headaches are a common symptom experienced after an auto accident. While they are typically harmless and may subside with time, they can also be a sign of more severe underlying medical conditions.
In some cases, a headache may indicate the following:
- Blood clot on the brain
- Neck or head injury
- Concussion
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
It is always recommended to seek medical attention if you experience headaches following any type of collision. Early detection of a potentially dangerous condition could prevent further damage and ensure proper treatment. Don't ignore a headache that persists post-accident, as it could be your body's way of signaling a more significant health problem, such as a brain injury.
Back Pain
When it comes to back pain after an accident, there are several possible causes. From a herniated disc and other soft tissue damage to a spinal injury, the discomfort can be severe and have a significant impact on your daily life.
If you start to experience numbness or tingling in your back, it could be a sign of a pinched nerve. This can occur when a herniated disk is putting pressure on a nerve root.
Other symptoms that may come with a pinched nerve include:
- Sharp burning pain
- Pins and needles sensations
- Frequent feeling that your foot or hand has “fallen asleep”
Ignoring the symptoms can lead to long-term pain and overall worsening of your condition. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention and get the relief you need to get back to your normal routine. Remember, your health should always be a top priority.
Abdominal Pain
After a car accident, it's important to pay attention to any abdominal pain you may experience. This could be a sign of internal bleeding, a life-threatening condition that may not be immediately apparent. If left untreated, it can lead to organ failure, coma, seizures, and death if bleeding is severe.
Internal bleeding can be visible and not visible. Visible internal bleeding, symptoms can include:
- Bleeding from the anus, ears, or nose
- Coughing up frothy bloody spit
- Bloody urine
Internal bleeding that is not visible occurs when the injured person is bleeding, but the blood remains contained in the body. Internal bleeding that is not visible can include symptoms such as:
- Swollen and tight abdomen
- Nausea
- Pale, clammy skin
- Unconsciousness
- Extreme thirst
- Vomiting
If you believe you or a loved one is bleeding internally after an accident, seek medical attention immediately.
Neck & Shoulder Pain
Pain in the neck and shoulders can be another ailment that may suggest whiplash. It's important to pay attention to your body, as you may not experience these symptoms immediately after an accident. If you start feeling discomfort in the head, neck, or shoulders, it's best to schedule a visit with your doctor. They can conduct an x-ray or MRI to diagnose your injuries accurately.
While it may be relieving to hear that your discomfort is caused by whiplash, it's important to remember that spinal injuries may also cause pain. Your doctor will know the best course of action to address any injuries and prevent long-lasting effects of an accident.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers
No matter how minor a car accident may seem, it’s always important to seek medical care afterward, even if there doesn't appear to be any immediate harm. Seeking medical attention immediately following an accident can not only ensure that any injuries are treated promptly, but it can also prevent potential complications from arising later on.
After receiving medical care, it's important to continue to monitor yourself for any lingering symptoms, as some injuries can take days or even weeks to fully present themselves. By taking these steps, you can safeguard your physical health. You’ll also want to work with a personal injury lawyer to determine what compensation you may be entitled to. This may include financial compensation for medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses related to your personal injury.
Our team of personal injury lawyers at May, Rammell & Wells is passionate about serving our clients. With years of experience, our attorneys have the skills and knowledge necessary to help you with your case.
If you're looking for an attorney you can trust, contact May, Rammell & Wells today. Call (208) 623-8021 or contact us online.
