Headaches After a Car Accident

One of the most common causes of post-accident headaches is whiplash. This occurs when the head and neck are jolted forward and then snapped back, causing the neck muscles to stretch and strain. Whiplash can result from rear-end collisions, but it can also occur in other types of accidents, such as T-bone or head-on collisions. You don’t necessarily have to hit your head to experience a headache.

Another cause of post-accident headaches is a concussion. This occurs when the brain is forcefully moved around inside the skull, causing a temporary disruption in normal brain function. Concussions can result from any type of car accident.

Car accidents can also cause pinched nerves that lead to headaches. The forceful impact of a crash can cause nerve roots in the cervical spine to become compressed or pinched. This may also lead to disc herniation or irritation of the greater occipital nerve, which is located at the base of the skull.

Depending on the severity of the accident and the type of injury sustained, post-accident headaches can range from mild to severe. It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Dull, aching pain in the head or neck
• Pressure across the forehead
• Pressure on the sides or back of the head
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tenderness in the neck or head
• Insomnia

If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, seek medical attention right away. Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms and determine the best course of treatment to help you manage your pain and discomfort. Even if your symptoms seem minor, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor to fully evaluate your injuries and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Even without experiencing any symptoms, what you think is a harmless headache could be something more serious. Get your post-accident headache checked out by a medical professional. They will conduct an evaluation and may do imaging tests to get a better picture of what's causing your headache.

Your doctor may first suggest anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen. Other medications they may suggest are pain medications like acetaminophen or other medications like triptans, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants. These medications may relieve pain for mild headaches, but if your headaches continue, you may have to explore other treatment options.

Physical therapy is another treatment option that helps improve the range of motion in your neck. This helps relieve pressure or tension. It also reduces the strain that may be causing your headaches.

How long do headaches last after a car accident?

The duration of a headache after a car accident will differ depending on the severity of the accident and the individual suffering from the headache. Age and overall health are factors that can affect the longevity of a headache. In some cases, headaches may go away on their own within a few days. In other cases, headaches can linger for months, sometimes more than a year.

After suffering a headache as a result of a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation you may be able to receive will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your quality of life, and the financial costs associated with your medical treatment and recovery.

Headache cases are often seen as difficult because the injury can be categorized as “invisible”, making it harder to prove. Unlike visible physical injuries, headaches are internal and can't be seen by the naked eye. This means that there's often a lack of medical evidence to support the claim of the victim, which can make it harder to prove the extent of their suffering to insurers or other parties involved in the case.

Reaching a fair settlement for a post-accident headache case can be challenging without the guidance of an experienced attorney. Car accident attorneys are knowledgeable and have dealt with difficult cases like headaches after a car accident. Having an experienced attorney on your side can increase the chances you are awarded the compensation you need for a complete recovery.

How a car accident attorney can help

If you've been in a car accident and are experiencing headaches as a result, it's important to know that you don't have to face this alone. A car accident attorney can help you understand your legal options and work to secure the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering. They can assist you in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and overall advocating for your best interests.

Schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options and begin the process of seeking the compensation you deserve.