What are the symptoms of whiplash? Should you see a doctor?

If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident, there’s always the chance that you could suffer an injury. Some of these are minor, while others could change your life forever.

The type of accident has a lot to do with the injuries you suffer. For example, whiplash is often the result of a rear-end collision.

If you were in a vehicle that was struck from behind, you need to realize that whiplash could occur. The symptoms most closely associated with this injury include:

— Neck pain accompanied by stiffness

— Worsening pain when the neck is moved

— Headaches, often originating in the base of the skull

— Loss of range, such as the inability to turn the head in one or both directions

— Fatigue

— Dizziness

— Numbness or tingling in the arms, shoulders or neck

As a general rule of thumb, you should consult with a doctor if you’re been involved in a motor vehicle accident. This is particularly true if you are suffering from one or more of the symptoms detailed above. If you neglect to seek treatment for whiplash, your problem will not go away on its own. In fact, it could worsen over time.

Whiplash is a serious injury that can have a long-term impact on your life. For this reason, you need to see a doctor right away while also learning more about your legal rights. In the event that another person was responsible for the accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries and other damages.

Source: Mayo Clinic, “Symptoms,” accessed Jan. 24, 2017