Are Concussions a Possible Effect of a Whiplash Injury?

Each time we get into our four-wheeled vehicles, we always risk getting into an accident that may injure us either lightly or severely. Examples of these injuries are the following:

1. Whiplash;

2. Concussion;

3. Traumatic brain injuries;

4. Scratches or severe bruises;

5. Pulled or strained muscles or ligaments;

6. Spinal Injury;

7. Paralysis; and

8. Death.

The last six injuries enumerated above seem pretty simple enough to understand. However, the first two are relatively unknown to someone without a medical background or to someone who has not experienced either before. What is a concussion, and what is whiplash? Is there a difference between the two, and can a concussion result from a whiplash injury? Let us discuss the two injuries below so that you can distinguish between the two if you ever do get into a vehicular accident.

First of all, let us answer the question of "can you get a concussion from whiplash". The answer to that is yes, it's possible. The abrupt movement of your head and neck during incidents like car accidents can strain the muscles and tendons in the neck, leading to whiplash. Simultaneously, this rapid motion can result in the brain moving forcefully within the skull, potentially causing a concussion. Both injuries can happen at the same time from the same accident.  It's important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment right away after such events.

How Does a Concussion Occur? Can Severe Whiplash Cause a Concussion?

As mentioned above, a concussion is caused by a sudden and forceful jolt. It is a traumatic brain injury that is often the result of a blow to the head, and it is temporary. Medical journals such as those researched and written by the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic state that the symptoms of a concussion may not be immediately apparent, and it may take several days before the symptoms begin to manifest. The physical symptoms of a concussion include the following:

1. Headache;

2. Ringing in the ears;

3. Nausea;

4. Vomiting;

5. Fatigue/drowsiness; and

6. Blurred vision.

These symptoms may be accompanied by other non-physical symptoms such as confusion or a fogginess in the brain, amnesia or forgetting the traumatic event, irritability, and dizziness. If you have ever been in a traumatic event involving the head, such as a car crash or a collision with another person, you must look out for these signs and symptoms as they are indicative that you might have a concussion. If, on the other hand, someone you know is involved in such a crash or collision, the following symptoms to look out for, in addition to the ones mentioned above, are the following:

1. Temporarily unconscious (but this does not always happen);

2. Slurred speech;

3. Delayed response to questions;

4. Appearing dazed;

5. Forgetfulness typically manifests in asking the same question more than once.

Does Whiplash Injuries Likely Lead to a Concussion?

A whiplash injury, like a concussion, is caused by a sudden and forceful jolt. While the two injuries have the same cause and similar symptoms, they are still quite distinct from one another as a concussion affects the head while a whiplash injury affects the neck and its surrounding muscles and ligaments. It takes place when the neck is forcefully and rapidly moved back and forth. While it is commonly caused by vehicular collisions, it can also take place while participating in contact sports, falling, or when one is subjected to physical abuse. As with a concussion, a whiplash injury might not always be immediately apparent, and you may not know you have it until later. Often, the symptoms of the injury manifest themselves within the next few days of the injury. These symptoms are:

1. Pain and stiffness in the neck;

2. Worsening of the pain when the neck is moved;

3. Headaches;

4. Tenderness or pain in the shoulders, upper back, or arms;

5. Tingling sensation or numbness in the arms;

6. Fatigue;

7. Dizziness.

It is also possible to have blurry vision, ringing in the ears, trouble with sleep, irritability, lack of concentration, memory problems, and depression.

While most whiplash injuries resolve themselves within a few weeks or days after being injured, there are cases where complications may arise. These complications may involve severe neck pain, limitations in the range of motion, and pains that spread to the arms. These complications may happen because of several factors, such as advanced age, and a prior whiplash injury.

What Should You Do When You Get These Injuries

When you get into a traumatic incident such as a high-impact car crash or a fall, it is of utmost importance to get yourself the proper medical attention. This ensures that the extent of your injuries, including whiplash concussion, is properly diagnosed and that you are given the proper treatment for them. If you are suffering from a concussion, it is recommended to see a doctor if you are experiencing the abovementioned symptoms frequently and with increasing intensity. This includes repeated vomiting and nausea, worsening of your headaches, confusion and disorientation, slurred speech, seizures, and convulsions.

If, on the other hand, you believe you are suffering from a whiplash injury, you should see a doctor in order to rule out more serious neck injuries or bone fractures. Seeing a doctor will also prevent any symptoms of a whiplash injury, including those associated with whiplash concussion, from getting worse.

It is important to know these things so you know what to look out for in the aftermath of an accident. However, you must remember that you must not self-diagnose, self-treat, or medicate, as this might worsen your symptoms.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Right Away!

We hope that this article answers your question "Can you get a concussion from whiplash?" And you are now aware of what to do in case you suspect a concussion or its possible aftermath. 

If you were in an accident in the Fort Walton, Florida area, and you experienced injuries such as a concussion or whiplash, it is best to call a personal injury lawyer. Here at Browning Law Firm, your personal injury lawyer and his staff have years of experience in dealing with such accidents and injuries. Your lawyer will study every aspect of the accident, including which party is at fault, the severity of your injuries, and the damage the accident caused you, and will get you the compensation you may be entitled to.

If you have any more questions about concussions and whiplash injuries, do not hesitate to call us. We can discuss such matters for FREE.