Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore After an Accident

Posted in Accident & Injury, Car Accident, Health & Wellness on August 9, 2022

Immediately after a motor vehicle accident, everyone involved should be seen by a doctor. No matter how minor, accidents can create life-long injuries that must be taken care of. Even after seeing a doctor, injuries not originally spotted can still surface. Below are the top symptoms that you should watch for after an accident.

• Headaches

Post-traumatic headaches are the most common injury that occurs after an accident. Adrenaline and shock can cause headaches, but in more severe cases, they can indicate sustained injuries such as a blood clot, concussion, other brain injuries, or whiplash.

• Back, Shoulder, or Neck Pain

These pains are expected in response to the neck and head being suddenly forced back then forward (whiplash). Other potential injuries displayed with this symptom could be a spinal cord injury, soft tissue injury, herniated disk, or sprain.

• Bruising and Numbness

In all cases, bruising, numbness, and tingling may occur if someone suffered a herniated disc or pinched nerve after an accident. If it is not checked out immediately, the injury could worsen and cause permanent damage.

• Abdominal Pain

Stomach pain after an accident can be a clear sign of having internal bleeding or an injury. The stomach has a soft tissue lining creating a higher chance of being injured during a collision.

• Emotional Distress

After an accident, many people experience driving anxiety, but approximately 9% develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Watching for mood swings and behavioral changes after a car accident can determine if an injury has occurred. Extreme cases can also help indicate a potential brain injury.