Car accident injuries that are not visible are often some of the most dangerous.
The most apparent car crash injury is one that breaks the skin. If you are bleeding, you are usually sure that you need to see a medical professional. Unfortunately, some injuries are not externally visible. If you talk to any experienced medical professional or personal injury attorney, they will tell you that these damages are some of the most dangerous because people do not resolve them quickly. Here are 5 of the most common non-visible injuries caused by auto collisions.
Whiplash
This injury is characterized by your head jerking forward or backward as a result of a sudden impact. What makes it such a common form of damage in car accidents is rear-endings, which cause that motion to occur nearly every time. Though you cannot see this injury from the outside, its symptoms include pain, stiffness, tenderness, and headache. If you experience these effects, it is worth going to the doctor and mentioning that you were in a car accident.
Concussion
Our second non-visible injury is a concussion. They are generally caused by violent blows to the head and can lead to headaches, loss of consciousness, confusion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. A few hours after sustaining this injury, you may also experience memory loss, irritability, sensitivity to light, and psychological problems. If you hit your head during your accident, you should always see a doctor to check for a concussion afterward. Additionally, even if you did not make a significant impact, you could still feel symptoms and should see a medical professional.
Herniated Disc
The structure of your spine is defined by a hard, bony exterior and a softer, gelatinous interior. To help you imagine it, think of a jelly donut, which has a tougher outside and a soft inside. A herniated disc is when that gelatinous portion pushes out past the hard exterior. What can be confusing about this type of damage is that you might feel symptoms in other parts of your body instead of solely your back. For example, those with a herniated disc in their lower back may feel pain in their thighs and calves too.
Internal Bleeding
When you cut your skin, the fact that you are bleeding is obvious. When that damage happens on the inside, it usually will not be visible to the naked eye. Unfortunately, internal bleeding can be incredibly harmful. If you feel significant pain after your collision, be sure to see a doctor so that they can catch this issue.
PTSD
The ultimate invisible injuries are ones that have to do with the mind. When you experience a car accident, there is a high chance that you will experience some psychological symptoms like anxiety or depression. This trend is especially true when the collision is coupled with a severe physical injury. If your mental health issues persist, a doctor may diagnose you with PTSD.
If you suffer a car accident and think you have no injuries, it is still a good idea to see a doctor. Some damages are not visible and need further examination to detect. Fast recognition is critical in personal injury lawsuits, so it is in your best interest to get the medical attention you need right away.