2 Signs of Whiplash After an Auto Accident

Regardless of the liability and severity of a car accident, it's a traumatic experience. And even if you don't sustain any visible injuries, you might spend the next few days worrying about minor twinges and feeling paranoid about the possibility of internal injuries.

The feelings are normal, but it's much better if you know the signs to look out for. Unfortunately, whiplash is among the common injuries with delayed symptoms. Read on to learn some signs that you suffered whiplash.

1. Headaches and Cognitive Issues

Constant headaches and personality changes may indicate a whiplash. Headache is a sign of neck muscle tightening. Also, irritation of the cervical pain after a neck injury could trigger headaches.

Furthermore, when you sustain a whiplash, you may also have a brain bruise or concussion associated with cognitive problems. And based on the seriousness of the injury, you may lose consciousness immediately or a few hours after an accident.

However, if you don't experience any symptoms immediately, the force of your brain crashing against the skull may cause problems later. Some of the issues include:

  • Loss of memory

  •  Irritability

  •  Insomnia

  •  Personality changes

Concussions could cause seizures and death in the worst-case scenario if not treated sooner. Let a car accident doctor examine you right away, whether you are in pain or not. The specialist has the right tools and skills to identify a concussion before it manifests itself. This way, you address the problem before it escalates to irreversible cognitive issues.

2. Neck Pain and Numbness

Neck pain and numbness following a neck injury may appear in one spot or radiate down the arms and shoulder. Note that the pain results primarily from ligament sprains. But it could also be caused by injuries to the nerves, resulting in numbness.

What's more? When you suffer a car accident, your head and neck may be subjected to blunt force. The trauma from the impact can cause compressed nerves or a neck sprain that pinches the nerves, making the surrounding area numb. Let an auto accident chiropractor examine you and overrule whiplash as the cause of your pain, discomfort, and numbness of the neck.

Again, depending on the severity of your neck injury, the symptoms can be minor and will disappear within a few days. At the same time, some symptoms manifest immediately after an accident, while others take a few hours, days, or even weeks or appear. Whichever your case is, prioritize your well-being by seeking medical assistance right away.


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