6 Hidden Car Accident Injuries To Look Out For

A lot happens when you get into a car accident. It can be a powerfully emotional experience. And while you make a quick check over post-crash, you wouldn’t be the first person to think that you’re ok. That’s thanks to the adrenalin currently coursing through your veins, acting as a pain reliever. 

However, even an accident considered to be minor can cause injuries that are hidden beneath the surface. And while you might be more focused on hiring the best car accident lawyers at this time, you should take a moment for yourself. Because if left untreated, the invisible injuries of a car accident can cause lasting injuries that continue to impact your life well past the crash date. 

Book yourself for an exam within a few days of your collision to discover if you have any of these 6 common car accident injuries. 

Neck Injuries

The injuries experienced in your neck after being in a car collision probably aren’t as hidden as the others. And that’s because we hear a lot about them, specifically about whiplash. We hear so much about whiplash because it’s one of the most common car accident injuries. 

The whipping action that gives whiplash its name can cause soft tissue damage in your neck that may not be painful straight away. If it’s not treated promptly, though, you could be left with pain that lasts weeks and sometimes months. You may need a combination of treatment from medical professionals, physical therapists, and pain management to recover. 

It’s recommended to visit a neck pain chiropractor as soon as possible following an accident to assess and treat any potential injuries. They can help you identify any hidden injuries and provide treatment options to prevent long-term damage.

Brain Injuries

Sometimes, whiplash can be severe enough to cause a concussion. A concussion is a brain injury caused by the trauma of a blow to the head. Be sure to look out for concussion symptoms so you can seek treatment sooner rather than later. 

Symptoms to keep an eye out for are headache, confusion, nausea, and dizziness, among others. The concussion might not present itself straight away, so you’ll need to keep an eye on yourself over the coming weeks. 

Back Injuries

Injuries to your spine aren’t always apparent but could cause severe medical issues down the road if they’re ignored. It’s better to be safer rather than sorry and assume that you have a hidden spinal injury. Get checked out as soon as possible to rule out any lasting injuries. 

Swelling around your spinal cord can cause numbness and even gradual paralysis. General back pain is less concerning but could be a marker for strained muscles that benefit from physical therapy. 

Soft Tissue Injuries

Injuries like concussions and trauma to the spine should be top of your list to get checked out. But there are other soft tissue injuries to look out for. Shoulders, elbows, and wrists tend to be the most affected areas, but any soft tissue can suffer injury. 

Trauma And Mental Anguish

Not all injuries will be to your body. Being in a collision is a traumatic experience, and you’ll likely feel some mental, emotional, or psychological symptoms too. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is common, and you could experience symptoms such as depression, anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares. If you experience emotional distress, it’ll likely be weeks and months down the line rather than straight away. 

Internal Injuries

Internal bleeding won’t be obvious straight away. But it can be absolutely life-threatening if left untreated. 

Modern car safety features do a brilliant job at keeping you and your body safe during a collision. But remember that your fight or flight response and sudden increase in adrenalin will mask many symptoms. Always get checked out just to be sure you’re good to go.