A car accident is an incredibly scary experience that takes a while to feel “back to normal” — both emotionally and physically. Whiplash is one of the most common crash injuries, but it can come with a variety of different symptoms.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash, medically defined as a cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) injury, occurs when the head quickly and forcefully moves back and forth like the cracking of a whip (hence the name). This causes stretching and tearing of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your neck — even when wearing a seatbelt. In car accidents, this commonly happens if you’re rear-ended, with the collision force driving your head forward and then recoiling back, sometimes impacting the seat headrest. However, whiplash can also happen side-to-side, both in crashes and in other environments like sports.
How Long Does Whiplash Last?
The duration of whiplash is different for every person and situation. Sometimes, symptoms subside within a few days. For others, the journey may extend to several months or more. This variability in duration hinges on factors like:
- Severity of the Accident: High-impact collisions (and those where your head is turned) typically result in more severe whiplash that lasts longer.
- Individual Health Factors: Age, pre-existing neck or back conditions, and overall health can influence recovery time.
- Speed and Quality of Treatment: Quick access to quality medical care will greatly speed up the healing process.
Whiplash Symptoms
If you think you might have experienced whiplash, common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Numbness and tingling
- Herniated disc
- Fatigue
- Vision blurriness
- Difficulty concentrating
Headaches
One of the first signs that something isn’t right after a car accident is often a headache. Even if you were moving at relatively low speeds, the force of the accident can cause your head to snap forward and backward, resulting in whiplash. Headaches don’t always appear immediately, so take note if you notice one in the hours or even days after the accident, especially if they don’t improve or go away.
Dizziness
If you feel dizzy after an accident involving your head or spine, visit a car accident doctor right away. This is a common sign of a concussion or whiplash injury because of the violent shaking your brain went through. You might feel like you’re on a boat when sitting still in a chair, or you could feel it when you stand up suddenly. Dizziness, especially if it continues for hours, can be a sign of something serious and should be checked by a doctor.
Neck Pain & Stiffness (Muscular Damage)
While your seatbelt holds your body in place in an accident, your head and neck don’t have the same protection. Neck pain or limited range of motion is common with whiplash because your muscles are strained outside of their normal limits and may even get torn. However, something that not everyone knows is that whiplash can also affect the muscles in your shoulders and back as well. If you notice your neck or shoulders are tender to the touch or hurt when you look in a certain direction, this could be a sign of whiplash.
Numbness & Tingling (Nerve Damage)
Feeling a tingling “pins and needles” sensation or numbness anywhere on your body after a crash might indicate nerve damage. When whiplash occurs, vertebrae in your neck can slip out of place or intervertebral discs could get moved and put pressure on a nearby nerve. For example, numbness in your fingers may happen if a nerve that communicates from your spine to your arm is pressured or damaged. Whiplash can also pinch nerves in your neck, causing pain, tingling, and weakness that radiates through your shoulder and into your arm and hand.
Herniated Disc (Spinal Damage)
Also known as spinal discs, the intervertebral discs we mentioned above have a tough outer shell and a soft inner nucleus that help provide cushion and support. When sudden pressure or compression of the spine occurs (like with whiplash), it can crack one of these discs. If this happens, the gel-like nucleus may spill out and aggravate nearby nerves. When nerves are affected by a herniated disc, it causes uncomfortable pain, tingling, and numbness that extend into other parts of the body, including the lower back and down to your buttocks and legs.
Other Symptoms
Other sensations that could be indicative of whiplash include fatigue, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings or irritability. Talk to a doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of these symptoms.
When to See a Doctor After a Collision
Even if the accident seemed minor, you may develop symptoms hours or even days afterward. Pay attention to your body after an accident and seek medical help if your symptoms persist or worsen.
- Severe Neck Pain: If your neck pain is intense and doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relief, it’s a sign you need to see a doctor.
- Numbness or Weakness: Feeling symptoms of nerve damage we discussed above requires immediate medical attention.
- Problems with Balance or Vision: Difficulty standing straight or changes in vision can be signs of more serious issues, potentially affecting the brain.
- Memory or Concentration Problems: If you’re having trouble with remembering or focusing, it could indicate a concussion or other serious condition.
- Unusual Symptoms: Any unusual symptoms or changes in your overall health following an accident should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
How a Car Accident Doctor Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident and the associated symptoms can be overwhelming, but Pro-Care provides a sanctuary of expert care and support. Our car accident doctors have built a reputation for their comprehensive whiplash diagnosis and treatment, and are well-versed in providing tailored treatment plans for each patient’s unique needs. We prioritize gentle and non-invasive practices like spinal adjustments, counseling, natural pain management, and more. Find a location near you to set up an appointment and get on the road to recovery today!
Other Whiplash Symptom FAQs
Can whiplash cause headaches?
Yes, the impact and force that causes neck strain and whiplash can also lead to concussions or tension headaches.
Can whiplash cause nausea?
Yes, some of the common whiplash symptoms like dizziness and headaches might also come with nausea. This can be caused by a lack of blood circulation to the head and inner ear.
Can whiplash cause vertigo?
Similarly to nausea, vertigo may accompany balance and dizziness sensations from whiplash
Can whiplash affect your lower back?
If whiplash results in a herniated disc, this discomfort and nerve pain can extend to the lower back and even down to the legs.
Should you go to the hospital for whiplash?
While every case is different, if your symptoms are severe and impacting daily life, or persist beyond 48 hours after the whiplash occurs, we recommend seeing a doctor for treatment.
