Car Accident Pain and Injuries: When to See a Doctor

Car accident injuries can happen even if you’re driving slowly. According to the CDC, for people age 5-29 years, 3 of the top 5 causes of death are injury-related, namely road traffic injuries.

Some of those deaths could have been prevented if people had sought medical help. Know the signs of car accident pain and injuries, and you’ll be better prepared for what to do if you’re ever in a car accident.

Read this guide to learn more.

Common Types of Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can have serious and life-altering consequences. Even if you don’t think you were injured, it is important to get a medical check-up after a car accident.

Common types of car accident injuries can involve the following:

Whiplash

Whiplash is a common injury sustained in car accidents and can result in immense pain and discomfort. It is an injury to the neck caused by a rapid back and forth motion of the head.

Symptoms of whiplash may include pain in the neck and shoulders, decreased range of motion, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, sleep disturbances, as well as stiffness and tightness in the muscles of the neck and shoulders.

It is crucial to visit a health professionals following a car accident to be assessed for any potential injuries, such as whiplash, and to receive proper treatment.

A doctor can recommend pain relief methods, such as heating pads, massage therapies, and physical therapy. In severe cases, medications like muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatories may be necessary. 

Bruises

Bruising occurs when an object forcefully impacts your skin, resulting in ruptured blood vessels under the skin. These may be accompanied by swelling, inflammation, and pain and should be evaluated by a doctor, especially if they create an obstacle when using a limb.

If a person experiences any pain, swelling, or discoloration that persists after the accident, they should seek medical attention immediately as they may have suffered serious injuries. Diagnosis and treatment are very important in order to prevent any long-term effects and to ensure that the person can fully recover.

Back Pain

Back pain is a common symptom of car accidents, and can range from minor tweaks to long-term muscle damage. If you experience back pain after a car accident, it is important to seek medical help.

Some injuries may not be obvious right away and can take days or weeks to develop, so it is important to get checked out as soon as possible. Common treatments for back pain from car accidents include physical therapy and medications to reduce inflammation and pain relief. If pain persists over time and does not improve with rest and home remedies, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any serious underlying issues.

Fractured Bones

Fractured bones are some of the most common pain and injuries associated with car accidents, including leg fractures. These injuries can occur when a car is hit from the side or from a combination of the impact and the twisting of the body.

So, it is important to know when to seek medical attention from a chiropractor for leg injury for example as pain from a fractured bone can range from mild to severe. It usually requires immediate medical attention.

Depending on the severity and location of the fracture, surgery may be required for bone stabilization and healing. Due to the intense and enduring pain that fractured bones can cause, prompt medical attention is necessary for appropriate diagnostics and treatment.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Car accidents can be devastating, causing serious pain and injuries. Common symptoms to look out for include pain in the neck, arms, and legs, as well as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and numbness.

In more serious injuries, there may be sensation loss, muscle weakness, stiff joints, tingling sensations, and difficulty breathing. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

An X-ray or MRI may be recommended to further evaluate the extent of the injury. Seeing a physician soon after the incident is important for proper diagnosis and treatment, as well as for speedy recovery. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for a full recovery.

The Emotional Impact of a Car Accident

The emotional impact of a car accident can be anything from immediate fear and shock to long-term trauma. Psychological symptoms of these may not be visible but they can be just as painful and damaging.

Right after an accident, it is normal to experience feelings of fear, anxiety, and PTSD. These emotional responses can last weeks, months, or even years after an actual incident. Be aware of the emotional effects of a car accident and to seek medical or psychological help if needed. 

Don’t ignore your emotional pain just because it can’t be seen. It’s important to acknowledge and seek help for emotional issues related to a car accident.

Financial Implications of Accident Related Injury

On top of the physical pain of the injury, there may be financial implications as well. Whether through insurance or out of pocket expenses, a car accident can put a tremendous financial strain on a family.

For more serious injuries, a person may need to take time off from work, resulting in a loss of wages. It is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the severity of the injury, as not all injuries will require costly medical attention. It is also best to consult with a personal injury attorney to ensure that any financial burden stemming from the accident is handled properly.

Try to Avoid a Car Accident at All Costs

Always be mindful of the safety of yourself and fellow drivers, and try to avoid a car accident at all costs. Be proactive in your driving and know when to put safety first.

Don’t drive when you’re feeling drowsy. Put your seatbelt on before you drive, and always obey the rules of the road. Remember, accident prevention is the best policy!

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