After being in a car accident, many people don’t experience any pain or discomfort. However, even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to see a doctor after the crash.

Certain auto accident injuries, such as whiplash and concussions, can have delayed symptoms. Additionally, the adrenaline of being in a crash can mute pain, stiffness, and other injury symptoms for hours or even days following the accident.

During a medical evaluation after an auto accident, your doctor can ensure that any injuries are diagnosed and that you receive the care that you need for a fast recovery. By seeing a doctor after a car accident, you can avoid long-term symptoms from injuries that often have delayed symptoms, including: 

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common auto accident injuries. It occurs when the neck is forced to suddenly whip back and forth. This forceful motion damages the soft tissues in the cervical spine, often leading to neck pain, lost range of motion in the neck, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and numbness in the arms. 

It can take days or even weeks for whiplash to present with symptoms after an auto accident. However, any delay in treating whiplash can lead to further damage and worsened pain. So, it’s in your best interest to see a doctor after a car accident, even if you don’t have symptoms. 

Concussions

A concussion is a brain injury that can occur when you receive a blow to the head. It causes brain cell damage that can inhibit the cells’ function and communication. Headache, nausea, vomiting, light/noise sensitivity, confusion, fatigue, and balance problems are all possible symptoms of a concussion. 

Concussion symptoms aren’t always apparent after an auto accident. However, it’s essential to get checked for a concussion by a doctor after a crash to avoid worsened brain damage. 

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc occurs when the exterior of the spinal disc cracks or tears. The soft interior of the disc can press out through this crack and irritate nearby nerves. 

Along with other spinal injuries, a herniated disc may not cause obvious symptoms after a car accident. If you sustain a spinal injury in an auto accident but don’t receive a medical evaluation promptly after the crash, the injury could become much worse. Possible complications from an untreated herniated disc include chronic pain and permanent nerve damage. 

At Florida Wellness Medical Group, we provide medical evaluations and specialized care for auto accident injuries, including physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!