Following an auto accident, one of the most important things to do is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Auto accidents can result in various internal and external injuries, and obtaining a prompt diagnosis is one of the first steps on the road to physical and financial recovery.
Many car accident victims will experience a variety of different symptoms, and many of these symptoms can be associated with multiple types of traumatic injuries. To avoid unnecessary and potentially long-term consequences, accident victims must rely on their doctors’ advice and not simply assume that they will get better over time. Here are the top 10 warning signs you need to look out for:
1. Localized Pain
Localized pain in the limbs and extremities could be a sign of soft tissue damage (a sprain, strain or tear) or potentially a broken bone. An x-ray, MRI or other forms of imaging will generally be necessary in order to provide an accurate diagnosis.
2. Loss of Muscle Strength or Mobility
Loss of muscle strength or mobility could be symptomatic of a sprain, strain, tear, broken bone or nerve damage. The location and extent of physical limitation will help determine the nature of the injury, along with a physical examination and medical imaging.
3. Swelling or Bruising
Swelling or bruising could be a sign of a variety of different injuries, from minor contusions that will heal on their own to broken bones that may require surgery.
4. Back Pain
Back pain can be a sign of many of the injuries previously discussed as well as herniated discs, spinal fractures and other spinal cord injuries. Imaging is needed to provide an accurate diagnosis; and, depending on the severity and location of the injury, surgery may be required.
5. Chest or Abdominal Pain
Chest or abdominal pain could be a sign of a rib fracture or other chest wall injury, or damage to the lungs or other internal organs. Other injuries are possible as well. Due to the potential complications from internal organ injuries, it will be important to obtain a diagnosis as soon as possible.
6. Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus)
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, is caused by exposure to loud noise. The damage caused by this exposure can usually heal, although medical intervention may be necessary to relieve symptoms or repair damage to the inner ear.
7. Blurred Vision
Blurred vision is a potential sign of a concussion or another form of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Blurred vision can either be a symptom of the brain injury itself or a of sequela known as post-trauma vision syndrome. Double vision is another common visual impairment caused by TBI.
8. Headaches
Headaches following a traumatic accident are most often symptomatic of concussions, though they may also be indicative of other, more-serious forms of TBI. Dizziness, disequilibrium (loss of balance), trouble concentrating and other symptoms are common as well.
9. Memory Loss
Memory loss is a symptom that is typically associated with more-severe forms of TBI. Short-term memory loss can also be a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
10. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, can be a sign of a traumatic injury to the chest or back. If shortness of breath lasts beyond the initial shock of being involved in an accident, prompt medical treatment may be necessary.
After You See the Doctor, Consider Meeting with an Attorney
Being injured in an auto accident can be a frustrating, difficult and even life-changing experience. If your injuries are severe, securing financial compensation could be a crucial step on your long road to recovery. The attorneys at Levine Law are here to assist victims of Denver and Colorado car accidents. Reach out to us today.
