After an accident such as a car crash or severe slip and fall, many injuries such as lacerations, fractures, and bruises are obvious and can be easily spotted with the naked eye. However, other types of injuries might not be so obvious, and some could even days or even time to manifest themselves.
Considering the shock of the accident itself, it can be difficult for a victim of an accident to account for all of his/her symptoms, which means that potential issues could be overlooked. In order to help individuals protect themselves and their loved ones after an accident, we decided to spend some time exploring some of the delayed or “hidden” symptoms that you should be on the lookout for. This information is especially relevant when dealing with insurance claims or any type of litigation involving a personal injury in Indiana.
Common Types of Delayed Symptoms
There are a plethora of reasons as to why symptoms might be delayed. Some of these are physiological: the release of adrenaline and other hormones can contribute to delayed symptoms. Other times, victims are simply too emotionally disoriented or distracted to notice symptoms, at least at first.
Delayed symptoms can include:
§ Back and other muscle pain: delayed back pain and other types of muscle pain are very common after an accident, especially those involving vehicles. Whiplash, trauma to the ligaments, and herniated discs can contribute to this type of symptom.
§ Headaches: headaches and dizziness can manifest days or even weeks after an accident, and could be a sign of a serious underlying injury such as whiplash, neck injuries, and blood clots.
§ Stomach pain: pain in the abdomen can signify internal injuries or bleeding. This is especially dangerous because these symptoms usually go unnoticed for days, and can lead to life-threatening complications.
§ PTSD: Many victims of accidents start to exhibit symptoms of Post-traumatic stress disorder, and often suffer from disturbing and vivid memories of the event. Emotional damage is often overlooked by medical professionals and family members alike, making these types of symptoms more likely to be ignored.
Consult with a Knowledgeable Personal Injury Attorney in Indiana
If you or a loved one were recently involved in an accident, it is important that you keep up with all symptoms, especially when dealing with insurance companies. These entities are quick to dismiss legitimate claims and always prioritize minimizing payouts above all else.
If you want to learn more, or to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney in Indiana, know that you can reach out directly to David R. Phillips. Contact us through our website or call 219-929-7060 to schedule a free initial consultation.