Whiplash Symptoms: Acute vs. Chronic Pain

Posted by timbells on November 28th, 2012

Whiplash symptoms may arise right after a car collides with another vehicle causing the neck to move forward, backward and sideways. In some cases, it becomes apparent after few hours, days or even weeks. It is classified into two: acute and chronic whiplash. The distinction between the two is determined by the duration of the pain suffered by the person and its symptoms.

Acute whiplash lasts for a short time and is characterised by common symptoms like neck pain and stiffness, headaches, painful and reduced movement of the neck, pain and numbness in the arms and hands, dizziness, muscle spasms, blurred vision, tinnitus and tiredness. On the other hand, chronic whiplash extends longer than 6 months. Acute whiplash symptoms include persistent headache, neck pain and swelling, stiffness, pins and needles in the arms and hands, dizziness coupled with emotional and psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, stress, post-traumatic stress, insomnia, memory problems and irritability.

The injury may take time to build up. Pain in the neck is sometimes worse after the accident. Warning signs of chronic whiplash may begin as acute whiplash. It may last longer usually more than 6 months. It is necessary to consult a doctor to determine the true condition of the injury so that right treatment can be applied immediately.

Claim for Whiplash

When whiplash symptoms arise after a car accident, problems starts to set in. The injured person struggles to recover from the pain balancing to live a normal life and paying all the expenses incurred from the accident. Sadly, the accident is caused by the negligence of a reckless driver. It is for this reason that the injured person contemplates in seeking compensation for car accident. A driver, passenger, pedestrian or cyclist is entitled to claim for an accident caused by mistakes of other people. Any road user who sustained injuries from the crash can make a claim. It compensates for the injuries suffered by the victim. These injuries include neck pain, back pain, fractures, injuries to internal organs, severe burns, and sprains.

Seeking medical help immediately after the crash is essential. The doctor will provide proper treatment and help treat the injured person. Medical records from healthcare professionals will serve as solid evidence in making a claim. Aside from the medical records, it is important to keep all receipts and expenses like hospital bills, prescription charges, cost of medical treatment, repair or replacement of vehicle, care expenses, additional utility cost, and travel expenses. The process requires expert legal advice in order to achieve the desired compensation. Specialist solicitors provide legal assistance in winning the case.