Fender benders and serious collisions alike can leave you with more than just a dented car. While some injuries are obvious right away, others might sneak up on you days or even weeks later.
It’s easy to brush off minor aches and pains, but some hidden injuries can turn into major problems if ignored. Knowing what to watch for after a crash can make a big difference in your recovery.
Hidden injuries to watch for
You might feel lucky to walk away from an accident without a scratch, but your body could be hiding some surprises. Keep an eye out for these five lesser-known injuries:
- TMJ problems: Your jaw might start to hurt or click when you eat or talk.
- Internal organ damage: Sometimes your liver or spleen could sustain damage without you knowing it right away.
- Spine fractures: Small cracks in your vertebrae can cause back pain that gets worse over time.
- PTSD: Car crashes can leave emotional scars that show up weeks or months later.
- Hearing issues: That loud crash or even the deployment of the airbag could have damaged your ears, leading to ringing or hearing loss.
These injuries might not jump out at you right away, but they can really mess with your day-to-day life if left unchecked. Pay attention to how you’re feeling in the weeks after your accident.
Don’t wait to get checked out
You might feel fine right after a crash, but it’s still smart to see a doctor. Catching hidden injuries early on can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Plus, having a record of your doctor visit can be a big help if you need to deal with insurance or legal stuff later.
Additionally, you usually have two years to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Ohio. Waiting too long to see a doctor or talk to a lawyer could cause problems with a personal injury claim.
Your health matters. If you’ve been in a crash, keep tabs on how you’re feeling. Even small changes are worth mentioning to your doctor. Taking care of yourself now can keep little problems from turning into big ones later.