A Pain In The Neck: The Truth About Whiplash
Posted on: 21 April 2016
Did your car get rear-ended during a minor car accident? Are you feeling a little sore after a collision? You may write off a small amount of pain as normal. However, it is important to understand that even the simplest car accidents can cause devastating injuries. One of the most common injuries is whiplash. Whiplash is a neck injury that stems from sudden, rapid neck movement. This frequently occurs during all types of automobile accidents.
One of the scariest things about whiplash is that you may not even know that you have it. Some accident victims do not feel any effects for weeks or months, or they just dismiss the issue as a minor inconvenience. Instead of ignoring this potential problem, read on to find out the devastating effects of this injury.
The Immediate Effects Of Whiplash
In many cases, the signs of whiplash will show up within 24 hours. Some people experience effects within six to twelve hours. The immediate or short-term effects of this injury may include:
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stiffness in the neck
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pain in the neck
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fatigue (extreme tiredness)
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headaches
These effects may seem minor to you. After all, most people get a headache or feel tension once in awhile. Unfortunately, this is not something you can immediately cure with a few aspirin and a good night's sleep. At the very least, your pain will likely last a few days or weeks. In some cases, the effects are life-changing.
The Long-Term Effects Of Whiplash
Many accident victims experience long-term effects of whiplash. If your whiplash is moderate to severe, you may experience the following:
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chronic and severe neck pain
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chronic and severe shoulder pain
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chronic and severe headaches
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difficulty concentrating
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difficulty remembering
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insomnia (pain-related and otherwise)
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anxiety, depression, and stress
It is not uncommon for people to experience chronic whiplash or Whiplash Syndrome. In these instances, the effects last for six months or more. Some victims have to file for disability payments, as whiplash is considered a disabling condition.
The Importance Of Seeking Professional Care
If you notice any symptoms of whiplash, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you do not experience the symptoms above, it is crucial to get medical help following a car accident. Again, whiplash can take weeks or months to show up. Be proactive and visit your physician to get an exam, care instructions, and so on.
Aside from seeing a physician, you may want to consider getting more info from a motor vehicle accident lawyer. This type of lawyer is experienced in helping whiplash victims through the recovery process. As you likely know, injuries like this can lead to piles of medical bills and missed hours at work. Consulting with an accident lawyer will allow you to explore your options for financial restitution.
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