Many people believe that any injuries they suffer in a car accident will be immediately visible. That’s why so many people initially deny medical care or an ambulance, only to later find out that they actually need treatment. Some injuries don’t cause symptoms until hours or days later.

Keep an eye out for these dangerous symptoms after a car accident. To discuss your legal options after a car crash, call Mann & Potter at 205-879-9661 and set up a consultation.

Headache

Headaches are very common after a car accident, but in some situations, they indicate serious injuries. Traumatic brain injuries often happen during car accidents, leaving victims with concussions or more serious health issues. If the brain strikes the inside of the skull or develops a bleed, you could experience sudden, painful headaches that do not go away with painkillers or other treatments.

Sudden Changes in Mood and Behavior

Another symptom that may indicate a traumatic brain injury is rapid changes in mood. While some moodiness or jumpiness is to be expected after a car accident, sudden mood swings that aren’t caused by anything could be indicative of a brain injury. TBIs may cause damage to the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that governs decision-making and emotional regulation. When this area of the brain is damaged, people may struggle with impulse control, emotional control, and appropriate behavior. These symptoms are definitely worthy of medical attention.

Fatigue

Again, much like headaches, fatigue is common after a car accident. Your body releases a ton of adrenaline during an accident to block out pain and allow you to either fight or flee. Once that adrenaline surge is over, your body needs some time to recover. So, one or two naps in the days following your accident may not be anything to worry about. However, if you find yourself sleeping constantly, feeling tired no matter how much sleep you get, or needing multiple naps every day, this could be an issue that requires medical attention.

Neck and Back Pain

After a car accident, you’re almost guaranteed to experience some neck and back pain. It should get better relatively quickly, though. If it doesn’t, you may have some serious injuries to tend to. When this happens, try to figure out exactly where the pain is coming from. Is it localized or is it spread across your entire back and neck? Pain in this part of the body may indicate spinal cord damage or a slipped disc. Both of these injuries get worse with time and require medical attention, which is why it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible after a crash.

Abdominal Pain

One of the most worrying symptoms you can experience after a car crash is abdominal pain. Most injuries are physically visible, but internal bleeding is not. By the time internal bleeding is detected, it may be too late. Abdominal pain, swelling, bloating, or cramping may be a sign of internal bleeding. You should also look for bruising around this area. Internal bleeding can be fatal, so it’s important to seek medical care as soon as it is suspected.

The Importance of a Prompt Medical Checkup

It’s understandable that some car accident victims aren’t in a rush to seek medical attention. Between copays and deductibles, even a basic checkup can be expensive. However, you don’t want to take unnecessary risks with your life and health. Whenever you are hurt in a car accident, take the time to get thoroughly examined by a medical professional. You have no idea what injuries could be hidden, causing irreparable damage to your health and wellbeing. This allows you to get the care you need right away.

Turn to Mann & Potter for Your Car Accident Claim

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, speak to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. The team at Mann & Potter has handled a wide range of personal injury cases, and we’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Schedule an initial consultation right away by calling us at 205-879-9661 or filling out our online contact form.