Most injuries following a car accident are associated with symptoms of pain, bleeding, lacerations, or other signs of trauma. These injuries are obvious and easy to spot. But in some cases, other injuries are less obvious. There may be internal trauma that is harder to notice or symptoms that only manifest in the days and weeks following a car accident. So, understanding the signs of these ‘hidden’ or less obvious injuries is crucial for prompt treatment and recovery.
Fractures
Fractures, or broken bones, are a common consequence of car accidents. While some fractures are evident due to pain, swelling, and deformity, others, like hairline fractures, may not be apparent. A hairline fracture is not always visible on X-ray immediately after the injury. In fact, the fracture may only become visible on X-ray a few days or weeks after the accident.
Therefore, even after undergoing an initial x-ray following a car accident, patients are encouraged to look out for the following signs and symptoms in the days and weeks ahead.
- Persistent pain in the arms or legs that has not improved
- Persistent swelling in the arms or legs that has not improved
- Inability to bear weight
- A visible deformity that appears on the arms or legs or that is not improving
Head Injuries
Head injuries are a grave concern in car accidents. Depending on the nature of the car accident and the mechanism of injury, possible head trauma can include concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These can occur due to the abrupt impact or whiplash motion of a collision. Symptoms of a head injury may range from headaches and dizziness to confusion and loss of consciousness.
Following a car accident, patients are encouraged to look out for these signs and symptoms in the days and weeks after the event:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Changes in vision or speech
Internal Trauma
Internal trauma, such as internal bleeding or organ damage, can pose a serious risk. For example, blunt force trauma from the collision can injure organs like the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs. These injuries are not always obvious. An immediate check-up following a car accident is strongly recommended, but continue to pay attention to these signs and symptoms in the days and weeks after the event:
- Ongoing abdominal pain or tenderness
- New or spreading bruising on the abdomen, legs, or groin
- Faintness or lightheadedness
- Signs of shock (pale skin, rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing)
Whiplash
Whiplash injuries are commonly experienced in rear-end collisions. While neck pain and stiffness are typical symptoms, whiplash can also manifest as headaches, shoulder pain, and tingling sensations in the arms.
Following a car accident, patients are encouraged to look out for the following signs and symptoms in the days and weeks after the event:
- Ongoing or worsening neck pain or stiffness
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Limited range of motion in the neck
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, are common in car accidents. These injuries affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons and can result in persistent pain, swelling, and restricted movement. While not life-threatening, soft tissue injuries can significantly impact daily life and may require physical therapy or other interventions for optimal recovery.
Symptoms to watch for in the following days and weeks after a car accident include:
- Ongoing or worsening pain
- Swelling, bruising, or stiffness that is worsening
- Difficulty moving the affected area
Car accidents can result in various injuries, ranging from the visible to the hidden. Fractures, head injuries, internal trauma, and soft tissue injuries are common injuries that may be missed on initial inspection. So, recognizing the signs of these injuries and seeking immediate medical attention is necessary for ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment. This helps promote a recovery that is faster and more complete.
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