Whiplash is one of the most common injuries after a car accident. It is surprising that it is also often overlooked. Whiplash occurs due to the sudden and forceful back-and-forth jerking of one’s head. The common initial symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness, and fatigue. However, as the problem progresses, the pain and discomfort increase significantly.
Research shows that whiplash can lead to secondary head injuries, which may appear weeks or even months after the initial trauma. It is important for healthcare providers and accident victims to understand how their current injuries can give rise to additional ones. When the cervical spine moves rapidly during whiplash, it can damage delicate structures in the brain.
Therefore, even if you have not had a direct head injury, the force of acceleration and deceleration may cause concussion-like symptoms. If you were injured in a similar incident, talk to a Corona personal injury attorney today.
The connection between whiplash and head injuries
Whiplash injuries often result from rear-end collisions. An individual may experience sudden back-and-forth movement due to the impact of the collision. This sudden movement transmits significant forces from your neck to your head and may affect the functioning of your brain. This secondary brain injury can lead to mild traumatic brain injury and even concussions.
These secondary brain injuries do not occur from the direct impact; however, when the brain shakes and collides with the rigid skull. These injuries can lead to emotional disturbance, problems with thinking, and balance issues, making the recovery process more difficult.
Moreover, several factors can increase the risk of head injuries in whiplash cases. Older people are more likely to experience severe head injuries as they have weak bones and less flexible soft tissues. Also, any pre-existing condition, such as a proper neck injury, can increase the risk of concussions and head injuries.
Types of secondary head injuries caused by whiplash
Concussions.
Whiplash injuries can often result in concussions. This mild traumatic brain injury is caused by sudden impacts that accelerate and decelerate the head. During the accident, your brain may move violently inside your skull and damage the nerves. This can also result in severe headaches, dizziness, and cognitive issues.
It is important to know that the symptoms of a concussion do not show up immediately. Therefore, visit your doctor for a proper checkup to treat the issue early on.
Post-concussion syndrome.
After a concussion, you may also experience post-concussion syndrome. These symptoms may take several weeks or even months to show up. Symptoms of PCS can include constant headaches, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes.
The recovery process can also be challenging as you will already be dealing with the emotional and mental effects of your injury. This prolonged recovery process often results in more frustration and anxiety for some individuals.
Cervicogenic headaches.
Cervicogenic headaches are caused by musculoskeletal problems related to whiplash injuries. The pain initially starts in your cervical area and goes up to your head. Symptoms may include constant pain on one side of the head and a stiff neck. You will also experience difficulty in moving your neck in certain ways and holding it in one position for too long.
Occipital neuralgia.
Occipital neuralgia is a nerve-related issue that can occur from a whiplash accident. Individuals may experience sharp pain that starts from the base of their skull and travels to the scalp. This condition results from inflammation of the occipital nerves, which can be compressed during a whiplash. Symptoms also include sudden pain that feels like an electric shock.
Injured in a car accident?
Being injured in a car accident can be a traumatic experience. If your accident has resulted in head injuries that keep getting worse, you should get the compensation you deserve.
