Car accidents can be very traumatizing. Your first instinct might be to brush off any potential injuries, but it is crucial to prioritize your health and seek medical attention immediately.
Below are reasons you should not delay seeking medical attention after a collision.
Hidden injuries can surface later
You might feel fine immediately after an accident. However, injuries may only sometimes be apparent right away. This is because the surge of adrenaline can mask pain. Certain conditions may not show symptoms for hours or even days. Seeking medical attention promptly allows professionals to detect and address hidden injuries before they get worse.
Following a car accident, your body has just undergone significant trauma. Even if you do not see visible wounds, there could be underlying damage that only a medical expert can identify. Ignoring these potential issues may have long-term adverse effects on your health.
Common injuries after a car accident
While every accident is unique, certain injuries occur more frequently than others. Knowing these common injuries can help you recognize potential issues and seek appropriate medical attention.
Below are common injuries following an accident:
Whiplash
One of the most common car accident injuries occurs when your head jerks forward and backward rapidly. It strains your neck muscles and ligaments. You might not feel the effects immediately, but within 24 hours, you could experience neck pain, stiffness and headaches.
Head injuries
Even if you do not hit your head directly, the impact force can cause your brain to move inside your skull. This can cause concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries. Symptoms can include confusion, dizziness, nausea and memory problems.
Back injuries
These can range from minor sprains to herniated discs or spinal cord damage. You might experience pain, numbness or tingling in your back, legs or arms.
Broken bones and fractures
These can occur due to the impact force. Ribs, arms, legs and collarbones are particularly vulnerable.
You may also suffer from internal injuries. Organ damage or internal bleeding might not be immediately obvious but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
It is ideal to get a thorough medical examination after any car accident, regardless of how you feel initially. This may help prevent complications in the future and safeguard your overall health.