When you have been hurt in an auto accident, you may have a long road of recovery ahead of you. In the meantime, here are some quick tips that could make the healing process go a little smoother.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Many things can go wrong with the human body during a car accident. Some common injuries include:
- broken bones
- torn muscles and ligaments
- Whiplash
- contusions (bruises)
- concussion and other head injuries
- back and neck injuries
- slipped, herniated, or ruptured discs
- spinal cord injuries
- severed spine (paralysis)
Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may experience severe pain, difficulty moving and accomplishing daily care activities, permanent disability, or paralysis.
Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
The first thing to do after a car accident is to seek medical attention. Keep in mind some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and could develop in the days or weeks after the accident. If this happens, get medical treatment as soon as you are aware of the injury. Soreness after a car accident is normal, but you should be checked out by a doctor if you experience:
- significant pain
- reduced range of movement
- numbness
- Tingling
- Any type of pain that radiates up or down your arm or leg
- stiffness
- muscle spasms
- swelling
Follow the Doctor’s Orders
It is important to follow all instructions given to you by your doctors after a car accident. Your doctor’s instructions may include surgical recommendations, rehabilitative therapy, medicine regiments, and other guidelines. If you are unsure about a doctor’s advice, consider asking for a second opinion.
Ignoring your doctor’s orders can lead to increased pain, aggravated injuries, an extended recovery time, and possibly permanent damage. Always check with your doctor before trying a new treatment, including home remedies.
Get Plenty of Rest and Fluids
You may find it difficult to rest after a car accident, if you are feeling stressed or in pain. However, rest encourages your body to heal, while overexertion can exacerbate your injuries. If you are having difficulty sleeping, your physician may be able to recommend a non-habit forming sleep aid.
No matter what your injuries are, it is important to drink lots of water during your recovery. Injuries usually result in reduced movement and pain medication, both of which can wreak havoc on your bowels. Staying hydrated is your last line of defense against constipation.
Don’t Neglect Your Emotional Health
When you are preoccupied with your physical injuries after a serious car accident, it is easy to forget about your mental health. The frightening and traumatic experience of a car crash can cause stress, anxiety, nightmares, panic attacks, PTSD, and other mental and emotional health problems. Reduced quality of life associated with a long-term or permanent disability can lead to depression. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek help from a mental health professional.
Contact a Mississippi Personal Injury Attorney
Recovering from an injury after a car accident can be a stressful time. Medical bills are piling up, but you are in pain and possibly out of work. It is extremely important to document your injuries and damages. Thankfully, hiring the right experienced and compassionate personal injury lawyer will make sure your rights and interests are protected, and the evidence from the incident is preserved, so you can focus on your physical recovery. If you have been injured in a or truck wreck, call a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. The Jackson, MS car accident attorneys at Derek L. Hall, PC, The Heavy Hitter is ready to assist you. Call us at (601) 768-8057 to schedule your free consultation.
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