Anyone can be involved in an accident. If you are fortunate enough, you may walk out perfectly fine or with very minor injuries. Whether the car wreck injuries can be seen or not, it is always essential that you get a medical checkup to confirm, as hidden injuries take longer to be discovered, and they are severe. These injuries can lead to headaches, depression, anxiety, irritability, fear, insomnia, memory problems, concentrating issues, vision sensitivity, light and sound sensitivity, tingling, and numbness.
Sprains, strains, or other soft tissue injuries are common in accidents. And, just like the tissues in your neck and back, the tissues in other parts of your body may not hurt right away. Wrist, elbow, and shoulder injuries are also common. If you develop pain in the days after an auto accident, seek treatment.
According to a Traffic Surveillance Report by Statista, approximately 6.7 million passenger vehicles were involved in car accidents in 2018. About 1.9 million accidents resulted in injuries. A medical research paper also found out that accident casualties tend to live a low-quality life because of whiplash injuries, between 1 and 5 years after the accident.
Hidden Injuries
Hidden injuries are the primary reason why you need to seek medical attention after an auto accident. A healthcare professional has trained eyes and can examine your body and pick up some symptoms you might not have noted. A quick medical examination means that the doctor can write the medical report earlier.
That helps your personal injury attorney to file a strong settlement claim. Diagnosing accident injuries can be challenging because of delayed symptoms.
5 hidden car wreck injuries to watch out for, include the following:
1. Whiplash
Whiplash, or cervical strain, is a frequent injury sustained in automobile accidents as the result of the rapid, forceful movement of the head going back and forth. If not treated in a timely manner, the effects of this injury can last for a prolonged period, leading to extended suffering.
This can be a difficult time for the injured individual, as they may be unable to perform everyday activities that they once could. This can lead to a decrease in their quality of life, as they may be unable to work or take part in activities that they once enjoyed.
It can be especially devastating for those who have been working hard to build a career or to support a family. Not only do they lose the ability to earn an income, but they also lose the sense of purpose and accomplishment that comes with having a job.
Without a job, many people feel like they have lost their identity and sense of self-worth. Medical professionals are available to help with the relief of pain, resumption of movement and avoidance of future complications.
2. Concussion
A concussion is a form of head trauma, which is a frequent yet hazardous result of auto collisions. Symptoms may not initially be noticeable, however, if left untreated, it could lead to an extended healing period. It is possible to suffer from a concussion without ever passing out.
It might take some time for the signs to show, not being identifiable straight away. A few indications can include:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Inability to remember the traumatic event
- Nausea
- Ringing in your ears
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
3. Back or spine injuries
It is prudent to seek medical care instantly if you have any indication of a spinal cord damage after being in an accident, particularly if the trauma to your head or neck is noteworthy. Even if the harm appears minor, it is essential to be aware that swelling and bleeding to the spine can cause gradual paralysis or loss of feeling.
In addition to potential spinal damage, back injuries can also arise gradually due to auto collisions, manifesting as soreness or agony in the muscles of the back. This can be caused by the sudden jolt of the impact, or by the pressure of the seatbelt on the body, which can cause the muscles to tense and strain.
This can lead to a gradual build-up of tension in the back muscles, which can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Over time, this tension can become chronic, leading to a range of issues such as stiffness, soreness, and even a decrease in range of motion.
This can be particularly problematic for those who work in physically demanding professions, such as construction workers, nurses, and athletes. Not only can this decrease in mobility lead to a decrease in productivity, but it can also lead to an increase in the risk of injury.
4. Sprains, strains, or other soft tissue injuries
It is not unusual to be unaware that your feet, ankles, or knees could be harmed in a motor vehicle crash. And, it is possible that any trauma to the tissues in those areas may not cause pain straight away. It is also likely to suffer injuries in the wrists, elbows, and shoulders.
If you are feeling discomfort in a few days after the incident, look for medical help. It is likely that the discomfort is associated with the damage caused in the accident.
5. Internal injuries
It is essential to receive medical attention following a car accident, especially if it wasn’t a minor bump. Professionals in healing pain and trauma strive to make sure negative impacts don’t persist long-term. Even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, it is wise to schedule a check-up.
This is especially true if you have been involved in an accident or experienced a sudden jolt or shock to your body. Even if you don’t feel any immediate pain, it is important to get checked out as soon as possible. This is because some medical conditions can be serious and require urgent attention.
Injured In An Accident?
Are you feeling frequent pains or unusual body symptoms following a car accident you were involved in recently? Contact Ornelas & Serna Law if you reside in New Mexico, Arizona, Texas or its surroundings.
We will help you get the best medical care and offer you professional legal help to win you the settlement claim. We offer a free case evaluation at any time of the day or night. What’s more, we do not ask for any fees unless you win the case!