Whiplash is a common injury you may experience after a car accident in Mississippi. Unlike other physical injuries, whiplash may not be immediately noticeable.
Knowing the symptoms of whiplash and recognizing the importance of seeking medical treatment right away can prevent your condition from worsening.
Whiplash symptoms
Whiplash happens when your head and neck move back and forth with extreme force. Often, this movement happens suddenly, before you can react and brace for impact. According to The Mayo Clinic, you may notice symptoms right away or they could develop over the course of a few days. Some common whiplash symptoms include the following:
- Difficulty concentrating and remembering things
- Numbing sensations including tingling and tenderness
- Headaches and persistent neck pain
- Irritability, depression and fatigue
- Loss of movement
Whiplash treatment
Your doctor can diagnose whiplash and recommend treatment depending on the severity of your injuries. You may need to temporarily wear a foam collar to help stabilize your neck as it recovers. Your doctor may also prescribe ice treatments, muscle relaxers or painkillers to help you manage the pain. Once you heal enough, your health care provider may suggest physical therapy to help you regain your range of motion.
If left untreated, whiplash can cause long-term pain that affects your cognitive function. Chronic pain may impact your ability to concentrate and communicate which could, in turn, affect your personal relationships and your career. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you could make a full recovery within a few weeks up to a few months if you follow the instructions provided by your physician.
