Car accident injuries can appear on the spot but they can also be delayed. Sometimes, aches and pains that last for weeks can indicate very serious problems. Headaches can be a symptom of concussion and are something to take seriously. Neck or back pain can be an indication that there is spinal damage. Abdominal pain can be a sign of internal bleeding, which is very serious. And numbness or tingling can also signal spinal issues. All of these types of injuries are serious and can cause issues for many years. They can even last a lifetime if left untreated. If you have been in an accident, keep an eye out for delayed injuries and get help immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Car Accident Injuries to Watch: Delayed Pain
Headache
Headaches are very common car accident injuries. The stress from an accident plus the whiplash can cause them. However, they can also be a symptom of
concussion. If your headache persists for more than a day or two, go see a doctor. Other symptoms of concussions are sudden changes in behavior, dizziness, confusion, ringing in the ears, and nausea.
Neck or Back Pain
Neck and back pain is also very common car accident injuries. They can be related to whiplash as well. However, they can also be signs that the accident caused a misalignment of vertebrae or spinal damage. And unfortunately, these injuries can linger for years. It’s important to check in with your doctor if you are experiencing neck or back pain. A chiropractor might be able to help.
Abdominal Pain
Another of the most serious car accident injuries is internal bleeding. If you are having pain in your stomach after an accident, it could be from internal bleeding. Other symptoms are bruising or discoloration. In addition, if you are feeling faint, dizzy, or passing out, you need to get help immediately. Internal bleeding can be life-threatening so act quickly.
Numbness or Tingling
Finally, another injury that can show up long after your accident is numbness or tingling. If you are feeling this, it can be a sign that you’ve hurt your spinal cord. Your spinal cord has a lot of nerves surrounding it. And when they are hurt or damaged, it can cause a numbing or tingling sensation. If you are feeling this, it’s worth getting a check-up. If left untreated, nerve damage can be a life-long problem.
Many car
accident injuries will need immediate attention at the scene. However, some injuries can show up many days, weeks, or even months later. And unfortunately, these are often signs of very serious problems. Headaches are a common reaction to trauma, but they can also be a sign of a concussion. Head and neck pain are also very common after crashes due to whiplash, but if they persist they might show damage to the spine. Internal bleeding can present as stomach pain many days after an accident and is a life-threatening problem. And finally, numbness or tingling sensations in the body might indicate nerve damage around the spinal cord. If you are experiencing any of these things, make an appointment with your doctor so that they don’t turn into lifelong issues.