What Does Delayed Pain After a Car Accident Mean? And Is It Serious?

Many people involved in a car accident walk away feeling fine, only to experience pain and discomfort later—a common phenomenon known as delayed pain. Delayed pain after a car accident could indicate a more severe injury than initially thought, making it essential to seek medical attention. Let’s explore what delayed pain means, the signs to look for, and why it is a serious issue.

What Does Delayed Pain Mean After a Car Accident?

Delayed pain typically occurs 24 to 72 hours after a car accident. You may feel fine immediately after the accident, but as time goes on, you start to notice some pain or discomfort in different parts of your body. This type of pain is called delayed pain, and it is the body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. The pain is often a result of soft tissue damage, which can take a few days to become noticeable.

Signs to Look for If You Have Delayed Pain

If you have been in a car accident, there are specific signs to look for if you suspect you may have delayed pain. These signs include:

Headache: You may experience a headache that does not go away, even after taking medication.
Neck Pain: You may notice neck pain that worsens with movement.
Abdominal Pain: You may experience pain in your abdomen, which can indicate internal injuries.
Back Pain: You may feel discomfort, stiffness, or pain in your back.
Numbness and Tingling: You may experience numbness or tingling in your arms or legs.

Why Is Delayed Pain Serious?

Any pain you experience after a car accident is a serious issue, and delayed pain is no different. Often, it indicates an underlying issue that’s more serious than originally thought. If left untreated, underlying injuries could worsen, causing chronic pain and other complications. Delayed pain could also signal damage to internal organs that may not be visible. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident can help identify any underlying injuries and prevent any potential long-term complications.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have Delayed Pain?

If you have been in a car accident, you should always seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel perfectly fine. But if you think you may have delayed pain, you should contact your doctor or go to the emergency room as soon as possible. It’s essential to have a thorough medical examination to check for underlying injuries, including soft tissue damage, fractures, and internal organ damage. Also, even if you aren’t experiencing severe symptoms, documenting your medical evaluation can help if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

Feeling Pain After a Car Accident? Don’t Wait to Get a Professional Medical Evaluation

Delayed pain after a car accident is not something to take lightly. If you experience any symptoms of pain or discomfort in the days following a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Call the caring team at Impact Medical Group of Clearwater today at (727) 292-0200 to schedule your free medical evaluation. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.