Delayed Symptoms of Car Crashes and Accidents

It is not uncommon for people who have been injured in car crashes to not realize that they have been injured for hours, days, or even weeks after the actual event. One reason why this can occur is because of the adrenaline rush a person might be experiencing after a crash. An auto accident – even a seemingly minor one – is often a traumatic experience, leaving those involved emotionally disorientated. There are several types of car accident injuries which can have delayed symptoms. This is one reason why – even if you think you have not been injured – you should still seek medical attention immediately following a crash. Even after one has been checked out by a physician, if he begins suffering from certain symptoms as below, he should contact his doctor right away.
Headaches
If a person begins suffering from headaches a few days after they have been in a car accident, this could be a sign that they are suffering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The accident may have caused blood clots, brain bruising, a serious concussion, or may be hemorrhaging.
Pain or Stiffness in the Neck or Shoulder Area
One of the most common delayed symptoms from an accident is whiplash. Even a person involved in a rear-end collision at a speed as slow as 25 kmph, can suffer whiplash injuries. Many people think whiplash is a minor injury, but it can actually be very severe, and in some cases, can be fatal.
Back Pain
Any type of back pain following a crash can be a symptom of a serious back or spine injury. The pain may be signaling damage to muscles, nerves, discs, or vertebrae. Back injuries can often end up being long-term – and sometimes with permanent disabilities.
Pain or Swelling of the Abdominal Area
If a car accident victim suffers from pain or swelling in the abdominal area, this could be a sign of internal bleeding, which can be a life-threatening condition. Other symptoms of internal bleeding include any kind of deep, purple bruising, dizziness, and fainting.
Numbness
A loss of feeling in arms or legs can also be another symptom of whiplash. Damage to the neck or spinal column can cause the loss of feeling. The numbness could also be a symptom of a head injury. Victims who experience numbness should seek medical attention right away.
Change in Personality or Behavior
A drastic change in a person’s behavior in the days following an accident could be another symptom of traumatic brain injury. Problems with hearing or vision, concentration difficulties, impaired memory, depression, or personality changes are all signs that there could be a serious TBI that needs urgent attention of a Doctor.
Extracts taken from an article by Kevin Duffin in the “Legal Examiner”.