Common Symptoms Experienced After A Car Accident
If you’ve just been in a car accident, you’re likely experiencing a lot of extra emotions and stress. On top of all the practical details, you may also be worried about whether or not you have suffered a significant injury. Because many injuries from car accidents are not immediately obvious, we’ve compiled this list of common symptoms you may experience after a car accident and when they might mean something more serious. By taking out the guesswork, it means you can stop worrying or get treated sooner and minimize the impact to your health.
Pain
Pain is likely the most common symptom experienced after a car accident. It can come in the form of:
Headaches
Tension headaches can be caused by the stress of dealing with all of the practical concerns that come with experiencing a car accident. If you are experiencing headaches with additional symptoms listed below, it may be a sign of an injury such as a concussion or whiplash.
Neck, Back or Shoulder Pain
Likewise, these types of pain can be due to emotional stress, but they can also indicate nerve, tendon or soft tissue damage. They can also occur due to concussion or whiplash, along with headaches.
Abdominal Pain
May be accompanied by nausea, as well. This can be due to the restriction of a seatbelt, which may not be felt right away. In some circumstances, it can also indicate internal bruising or bleeding.
Bruising, Swelling, Stiffness
These symptoms are typically noticed up to several days after the accident and are generally not a cause for alarm. At home remedies such as ice, heat, rest and immobilization will likely suffice until your muscles and joints heal up. But if symptoms persist or continue to worsen, it’s time to get checked out.
Sensory Changes
Visual disturbances, dizziness, hearing loss, tinnitus and tingling or numbness are some of the many sensory changes that can indicate a more severe injury. Conditions like whiplash or concussion can cause sensory impairments. Numbness or tingling may be the result of pinched or injured nerves. Symptoms of this nature should always merit a visit to a medical professional.
Mood, Habit and Cognitive Changes
Mood swings, changes in appetite, changes in sleep patterns, memory loss or other cognitive issues can also indicate a more serious condition such as a concussion, brain injury, depression or PTSD. Be sure to mention any changes of this nature to a medical professional.
If you have been in a car accident and think you may have symptoms that indicate a serious injury, please give Dr. Keren Gomez a call today at 305-761-6528 (Dade), 954-510-5518 (Broward), 561-414-2401 (Palm Beach). We can complete a professional assessment to put your mind at ease and ensure that any issues are treated promptly and effectively, getting you back on your feet as soon as possible.