After a car accident, you may be eager to get home, get some rest, and move on with your week. However, while you might feel fine immediately after the collision, the shock of the accident may have caused an adrenaline rush that is masking your injuries. That is why it’s crucial to look out for these three delayed symptoms of auto accident injuries.

What Injury Symptoms Are Delayed After an Auto Accident?

1. Headaches

In some cases, you may experience a headache or migraine symptoms several days after a car accident. If the headache is accompanied by discomfort in the neck or temples, you may be suffering from a tension headache as a result of whiplash. This injury is caused by the rapid jerking motion of the head and neck during a collision. In more serious cases, a headache could indicate a concussion or brain injury.

2. Changes in Hearing or Vision

After an auto accident, you may be advised to stay awake and pay attention to your five senses. For example, if your vision becomes blurry or doubled, you may need to be evaluated for a concussion.

In the days and weeks following the accident, it’s important to keep a close watch on both your eyesight and hearing. Dizziness and ringing in the ears could manifest as delayed reactions to the stress of the accident, and the loud noises that occurred. Hearing problems could also point to ear canal damage, such as from hitting your head on the window or airbag.

3. Skin Discoloration

In some cases, the impact of a collision could result in internal bleeding, even if no external injuries are visible. That’s why it’s important to check every area of your body in a full-length mirror in the days following the accident. 

If you notice any blue, purple, or even yellow discoloration spots on the skin, point them out to a doctor or medical care provider. These may be surface bruises caused by the airbag or other interior car parts, but they could also indicate bleeding inside the body, which requires urgent treatment.

Should you notice any of these delayed injury symptoms, reach out to Accident Doctors with offices in Mesa, Phoenix, & Gilbert, AZ. This team of physicians often works with auto accident victims, treating everything from whiplash to nerve damage. They can also provide physical therapy and pain management solutions to help you achieve a full recovery. You can learn more about their effective treatment plans online or call (602) 632-0000 to schedule an appointment.