Car accidents can leave Texas residents seriously injured. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, victims can suffer from headaches. These are some common reasons for them and their symptoms.
Causes of headaches after car accidents
Headaches can occur after car accidents because of how the impact affects your head and neck. A traumatic brain injury can develop if your head makes contact with the steering wheel, dashboard or window. This can lead to a headache even in the mildest form of a TBI, which is a concussion.
Whiplash is a common car accident injury that affects the delicate tendons, ligaments and muscles in the neck. It can also cause headaches because of the sheer force you experience in your neck.
Skull and neck fractures can also cause headaches after a car accident. The pain is often continuous and sometimes debilitating; the worse the fracture, the more intense your headache. You can also experience other symptoms such as confusion, slurred speech, dizziness and seizure.
Post-traumatic headaches often occur after car accidents as well. These are due to the trauma of the crash and often manifest several hours to several days later. Post-traumatic headaches can affect your sleep patterns for two or three weeks as the pain lingers.
Don’t ignore headaches after a car accident
One of the worst things to do when you experience headaches after a car accident is to ignore them. Your headache may be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Even if you don’t have a condition like a TBI, ignoring your headaches can lead to chronic pain.
Even if you feel fine immediately after a car accident, it’s best to seek medical attention. It can minimize the effects of your injuries and provide evidence if you file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.