A car accident in Alabama can leave you facing both physical injuries and the inconvenience of property damage. Some injuries, like whiplash, you may not notice right away. However, if left untreated, neck injuries can cause worsening health.
Knowing the symptoms of whiplash can help you recognize when to seek medical attention. Your decision to get help can prevent your condition from declining and threatening your quality of life.
Whiplash symptoms
Perhaps the most obvious indication of whiplash is neck pain. Soreness, stiffness and reduced mobility are all symptoms too. According to The Mayo Clinic, other whiplash symptoms may include the following:
- Tingling in upper extremities
- Severe headaches
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty remembering
- Irritability
- Inability to focus
Whiplash effects
While many consider whiplash a minor injury compared with other, more obvious physical injuries, it too requires immediate treatment. Expecting your neck pain to dissipate on its own could unnecessarily compromise your health. If left untreated, whiplash can cause extensive damage to your body and impair your well-being. Worsening pain may affect your ability to work or complete everyday tasks. You could suffer from persistent headaches and reduced mobility.
Untreated whiplash can also accelerate your risks of forming degenerative diseases including the gradual breakdown of your spinal column and discs. While all whiplash injuries often require some form of rehabilitation, untreated whiplash may substantially increase the length and frequency of therapies to help correct the issue.
Car accident injuries can impact your life significantly. If you have suffered injuries because of the negligence of another motorist, you may feel frustration and anger. If you choose to file a lawsuit against the offending party, working with an attorney can provide you with considerable support.