Not all personal injuries show up in the immediate aftermath of an accident. Some take hours, days, or even weeks to appear. However, the passage of time doesn't mean these injury symptoms should be ignored or that they are any less serious; in some cases, they could be signs of potentially life-threatening medical conditions. Below, learn more about three commonly delayed personal injury symptoms.

A Guide to Delayed Injury Symptoms

1. Neck Pain

Whiplash is a prevalent personal injury, and it is one that often doesn't manifest right away. This type of damage to the soft tissue of the neck occurs when the head is snapped forcefully from one position into another. The neck is in constant use supporting the head, so whiplash can involve a lengthy recovery, and scar tissue isn't always observable on imaging, which can make an initial diagnosis difficult, especially if you have no immediate symptoms. Some common signs of whiplash include neck and shoulder pain and limited range of motion in the neck.

2. Headaches

Headaches are a normal byproduct of whiplash, but they can also signal something much more serious. Certain types of traumatic brain injuries—marked by intracranial bruising, bleeding, or swelling—may not be obvious right away, but they can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. If you experience a headache after an accident, always get checked out by a medical professional and keep close tabs on your symptoms over the next several days.

3. Psychological Trauma

An accident is a terrifying experience that can seriously impact a person's ability to live and function. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a condition in which a victim suffers panic and flashbacks in relation to a triggering event. But in its earliest stages, PTSD can be subtle, taking the form of unexplained anxiety, mood swings, or nightmares. In some cases, the full extent of the trauma may not emerge for months or years. Never minimize your emotional pain after a personal injury, and seek professional help if you notice any disturbing changes in your behavior.

If you've endured any of the above symptoms, contact a personal injury lawyer. Ibold & O'Brien has been representing northeast Ohio and Geauga, Lake, Ashtabula, and Cuyahoga counties since 1980. They offer legal services in a wide range of practice areas, including personal injuries, criminal defenses, and estate planning and probate issues. Call (440) 285-3511 or visit their website to schedule a consultation.