Experiencing an auto accident is upsetting and stressful. In the rush to fix your car and address other issues, it’s common to overlook the need for medical care. Delaying care for auto accident injuries comes with several dangers that could put your comfort and well-being at risk. Taking a look at these health hazards after a car accident can help motivate you or a loved one to seek prompt care.
Injuries May Not Appear Right Away
In the aftermath of an accident, your body may still be sending adrenaline through your system that can mask pain. Shock could also cause you to be able to identify injuries or discomfort that will reveal themselves later. For instance, whiplash symptoms can appear as late as several days after an accident. Concussions and soft tissue injuries may also develop gradually. Making sure to monitor symptoms over time helps you know when to reach out to a chiropractor.
Untreated Injuries Could Cause Chronic Pain
Pain is disruptive to your daily life, but it is often temporary. Unfortunately, allowing car accident injuries to go untreated could cause them to worsen. For example, you might make a slipped disc in your spine worse if you continue to strain your body with your normal activities. Ignoring an injury could lead to serious back pain and joint problems that can limit your mobility and cause emotional stress.
Brain Injuries and Concussions May Not Be Obvious at First
Traumatic brain injuries can impact your ability to think clearly and remember important information. Since your brain also controls your body’s central nervous system, you could also experience issues with nerve pain, chronic headaches and a loss of control over your movements. If you experience the symptoms of a concussion, such as dizziness, difficulty concentrating or severe headaches, then you could have underlying trauma to your brain that requires medical attention.
Insurance Claims Might Be Impacted
Delaying medical care could cause insurance companies to deny or delay decisions on claims. In some cases, an insurance company could argue that your injuries were caused by something other than the accident if too much time goes by. Since insurance companies can help to cover the cost of auto injury care, it’s worth seeking a medical evaluation as soon as possible. You can then use the results of your report to seek compensation for expenses such as physical therapy and lost wages.
Seeking Chiropractic Care Speeds Up Your Recovery
Hidden injuries are difficult to address on your own. Working with a chiropractor can help you learn if you could benefit from adjustments that realign your spine. Chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation in your body to promote faster healing after the accident. Healing your injuries as soon as possible further helps to reduce your risk of having long-term pain.
After an accident, you might be tempted to brush off the damage that was done to your body. Even if you aren’t feeling serious pain yet, it’s beneficial to seek a medical evaluation that could reveal hidden injuries. Taking care of yourself today can pave the way for a healthier future. Make sure to include scheduling a chiropractic appointment on your to-do list as you recover from your recent accident.