Delayed Symptoms of Hidden Injuries After a Car Crash

The immediate aftermath of a car accident is chaotic. Cuts and bruises and some pain may be evident, but a more insidious threat often lurks — hidden injuries that can take days, weeks or even months to manifest. The body’s natural fight-or-flight response releases adrenaline, a hormone that acts as a temporary pain reliever. This can mask the initial discomfort, making it difficult to recognize the extent of the injury. Furthermore, internal injuries often don’t show outward indications.

Understanding the delayed symptoms of car crash injuries can help you prioritize your health and ensure proper medical attention. Here’s a glimpse into some common injuries that can take days or weeks to reveal themselves:

• Internal bleeding — Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding or organ injury, which might not cause immediate pain as the body attempts to contain the damage. Symptoms often emerge as the body absorbs the blood or the injury progresses. Watch for signs like abdominal pain, dizziness and blood in the stool or urine.
• Whiplash — Whiplash is a type of injury to the neck muscles due to forceful back-and-forth head movement. Pain, stiffness and reduced mobility in the neck and shoulders often appear gradually after the initial shock subsides.
• Soft tissue injuries — Muscles, ligaments and tendons can sustain significant tears or strains during an accident. The body’s inflammatory response takes time to build up, leading to delayed pain and stiffness.
• Fractures — Hairline fractures, especially in the ribs or spine, can be tricky to diagnose without an X-ray or CT scan. The body’s initial response might not trigger immediate pain, but discomfort can worsen as inflammation sets in.
• Concussions — A mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause a range of symptoms like headaches, dizziness, memory problems and difficulty concentrating. These issues may not be readily apparent and can take days or even weeks to surface.

Following an accident, even if you seem to feel okay, getting medical attention is vital. A thorough medical evaluation, including X-rays and other diagnostic tests, can help identify hidden injuries. Be transparent with the doctor about any lingering pain, dizziness, or unusual sensations, even if they seem minor. Adhere to recommended treatment plans, including physical therapy for soft tissue injuries or medication for pain management.
You should maintain detailed records of the accident, doctor visits and any symptoms you experience. Finally, seek out an experienced Kansas automobile injury attorney who can advise you about how to recover fair financial compensation for your injuries.
At Patrick C. Smith, Attorney at Law in Pittsburg, I help victims of Kansas car accidents get the maximum compensation allowed by law. If you’ve been hurt in an accident, please call my office at 620-308-6692 or contact me online to arrange a free initial consultation.