6 Delayed Car Crash Symptoms Not to Ignore
Car Accidents happen every day in Illinois and some are serious while others are not. The most common type of car accident is when one or both parties don’t seem to be injured or have minor injuries. Often, when people are in an accident that seems minor, they do not notice any injury symptoms right away.
We would recommend that you see a doctor right after the accident if you feel any level of pain, soreness, or discomfort. It may even be a good idea to see a doctor even if you feel fine. A doctor will make the best judgement as to whether or not you sustained serious injuries from the accident.
So why would someone delay medical treatment? A common reason is that they felt fine or had a little bit of soreness and thought it would go away. Car accidents often cause “silent” injuries that can become more serious over time. Common “silent” injuries include headaches, neck or shoulder injuries, back pain, numbness, abdominal pain and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Common injury symptoms that can appear several days later
- Headaches
You may experience headaches after a car accident however may not develop until several days after the crash.A concussion, blood clot, neck injury or whiplash could result in dizziness or headaches.Headaches or dizziness could be a serious brain injury and should not be left untreated.
- Neck or Shoulders stiffness
Whiplash usually occurs as a result of a rear end collision.Whiplash is a neck injury due to forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip.Symptoms of whiplash commonly do not appear until weeks or months after the accident.Symptoms may include neck or shoulder pain, stiffness, and headaches.
- Back Pain
Back pain that might appear after a car crash could be caused by injury to ligaments, muscles or the nerves in the back or even damage to the vertebrae.If you are experiencing numbness or tingling as well as back pain, you may have a pinched nerve.It is important to see a doctor if you experience any back pain.
- Abdominal pain or swelling
Abdominal pain or swelling could be the result of internal bleeding and other symptoms may include bruising, dizziness, or fainting.If you experience any abdominal pain, you should see a doctor immediately.
- Numbness or Tingling
Any type of numbness or tingling on the body could indicate a herniated disc or pinched nerve.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD is common after an accident. PTSD is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. PTSD victims usually have disturbing memories or the accident or have reoccurring flashbacks. They may also experience anxiety while in a car or avoid traveling by car for some time after the accident.
Don’t Delay Getting a Auto Accident Attorney
With over a century of combined professional experience, our Illinois personal injury attorneys understand the stress faced by those who are the victim of intentional neglect or wrongdoing. Make sure you have a good, experienced, and reputable auto accident lawyer to advise you. Contact us today at 618-932-2772.