Some injuries that result from car wrecks are hard to miss, but in the context of common collision-related injuries, headaches can seem insignificant and temporary. When a headache lasts, however, it can cause substantial pain and disruption, in some cases, headaches can indicate serious underlying issues.
What Causes Accident-Related Headaches?
A headache caused by a car accident often results from a blow to the head. Sometimes, similar trauma to the neck, back, or shoulders will create tension that causes headaches. Even if there is no direct blow, being jolted or shaken can have similar consequences.
Whiplash injuries occur when the head is violently jerked back and forth, which causes damage to the soft tissues of the neck. Of course, serious head injuries, like skull fractures, may cause headaches. Other injuries, such as pinched nerves in the neck or spine, herniated discs, or muscles, also have the potential to cause headaches.
Common Symptoms of Accident-Related Headaches
Headaches are identified by a list of symptoms, including:
- Dull or aching pain in the head
- Tightness across the forehead
- Pressure on the sides or back of the head
- Scalp sensitivity
- Tension in the neck and shoulder muscles
- Possible loss of appetite
When are Headaches Worrisome?
Since headaches can result from stress and being involved in a car accident is an obvious source of stress, the occurrence of a subsequent headache may not come as a surprise. However, since a headache can be a hard-to-ignore manifestation of a more profound medical issue, any pain should be taken seriously.
Even when persistent headaches are the only physical symptom, they can be indicators of injuries that warrant medical attention. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be quite serious, even life threatening. A concussion is a common and relatively mild type of traumatic brain injury that usually heals with adequate rest. Other TBIs can cause debilitating pain and have life-altering consequences if they are not addressed.
Finally, headaches themselves are painful and often incapacitating. When people suffer from recurring headaches or migraines, it can have profound impacts on their ability to work, their relationships, and their quality of life.
What Should I Do if I Have a Headache After an Accident?
If one suffers from headaches after a car accident, one should immediately get checked out by a doctor to determine if there are underlying issues. Proper diagnosis and treatment are critical. In addition, a visit to a doctor right away will serve as documentation that the headaches can be traced back to the accident, a vital component in a personal injury case.
Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Win Compensation for Injured Accident Victims
A headache can seem like a common ailment with an easy fix, but a chronic headache can cause immense suffering and a diminished quality of life. If you are suffering from recurrintel:g headaches after a collision, you should discuss your injury with one of our Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. Contact us online or call us at 202-331-1963 for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., we serve clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, and Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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