Anytime you’re injured in a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away. Don’t rely on your ability to tell how severe your injury is. Leave that to trained health professionals.
The surge of adrenaline that happens following an auto accident often masks pain. Additionally, some injuries don’t cause symptoms right away. The sooner you seek medical evaluation, the better.
Take it from the professionals at Tulsa Accident Care Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Robert Mitchell, MD, and our experienced medical team specialize in auto accident care and can provide a prompt and accurate diagnosis, so you can get the treatment you need to get on the road to recovery. Here’s what you need to know about chest pain after a car accident.
Some of the most serious car accident injuries are invisible to the naked eye. In contrast to bruises and lacerations, some injuries, such as rib fractures and pulmonary contusions, require immediate medical attention. You should never overlook intermittent chest pain following a car accident.
Although bruising from the force of impact is often blamed for chest pain after a car accident, it can also indicate a more serious injury. If left untreated, chest pain from a blunt force injury can lead to serious complications.
The rapid deceleration of a vehicle during an accident can propel your body into the steering wheel, dashboard, seatbelt, or other objects. Blunt force trauma can result in minor to severe chest injuries.
Shortness of breath and dull chest pain are common symptoms following a car accident. The shock of the event alone can take your breath away, and the force of impact can bruise your chest. If your shortness of breath persists or your pain worsens, you should seek medical attention right away.
Visiting a doctor for an accurate diagnosis is the only way to know if you've suffered a serious chest injury. The shock and adrenaline from an accident could leave you unaware of the problem until you experience severe pain.
Here are some symptoms to watch out for:
It’s best to see a health care provider after you’ve been in an auto accident, and especially if you’re concerned that you may have sustained an injury.
Treatment will depend on the severity of the injury. If the injury is minor, resting from activities for a little while could be sufficient. If the injury is severe, such as a pulmonary contusion or punctured lung, you’ll likely require hospitalization.
Even if you think you walked away from a car accident unscathed, it’s important to get evaluated as soon as possible for potential injuries, especially if you have symptoms or suspect you have a chest injury. Seeking care can help you get an accurate diagnosis, prompt treatment, and crucial documentation.
Never put off seeking medical attention after a car accident. Even a minor fender bender can cause significant injury. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, call 918-888-8080 or book an appointment online with Tulsa Accident Care Center today.
