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The unexpected T-bone collision with another vehicle led to severe damage to your car, but not a scratch on you. At least that is what you think. Anytime you as a driver, passenger or pedestrian are involved in a collision, you may have sustained an injury and have overlooked any existing signs. However, sometimes, the signs are not there right away.
Delayed injury symptoms are known to surface in certain situations. A person walks away from a car accident seemingly unscathed, but hours later is rushed to the hospital after complaining of severe headaches, abdominal pains or any number of symptoms.
Neck Pain, Headaches
You can have a severe injury and not even know it until hours later. Maybe the initial pain disappeared, and you feel fine now. However, gradually, your body speaks the truth, and you find yourself nursing a bad back by using ice or a heating pad. Waiting to seek treatment is not a good option.
The list of common delayed injury symptoms include:
- Back pain: The discomfort usually begins in the lower back after being struck from behind in a car accident. Its gradual worsening points to signs of a potentially serious injury. A chiropractor likely will not do in such circumstances. You may need surgery.
- Neck and shoulder pain: This is usually the sign of whiplash. Often, the neck pain worsens, and it gradually becomes stiff and numb. These symptoms also represent signs of nerve damage.
- Abdominal pain: Along with bruising to the torso, this is a potential sign of internal bleeding. Your internal organs – spleen, lungs, liver and heart – may have sustained severe damage. This can lead to death.
- Headaches and fatigue: Along with dizziness, these are signs of a concussion. In some cases, it could be a traumatic brain injury. Bleeding on the brain remains a possibility after falling hard on the cement.
Be aware that your injury may not surface right away. If something does not seem physically right hours or days after an accident, trust your instincts. Do not take this situation lightly and seek medical attention. It just may save your life.