If you’re unsure about whether or not you need medical care, including emergency care, you can call a healthcare provider for help. Learn about the signs that point towards the need for emergency care, the signs you need non-emergency medical attention, and the signs that you may be able to heal on your own.
When To Get Emergency Care
Car accident injuries can be unpredictable, so it’s important to listen to what your body is telling you when it comes to deciding whether or not you need to go to the emergency room. Keep in mind that you can always call your primary care provider to ask for advice about whether or not an emergency room visit is needed.
In general, you should seek emergency care, whether an emergency room or urgent care clinic, if you experience any of the following immediately after an accident:
- Severe pain in any part of the body
- Heavy bleeding
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Blows to the head
- Trouble breathing
- Neck and head pain
- Losing consciousness
- Numbness
- Severe burns
- Dizziness
- Vision issues
- Difficulty concentrating
When To See a Physician
There are some types of injuries that don’t require emergency treatment but for which you should still seek medical care. In these instances, it’s still a good idea to get medical care as soon as possible to protect yourself. You should see a physician for your injury if you experience any of the following symptoms in the days and weeks following your accident:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Depression or anxiety
- Swelling and bruising that doesn’t go away
- Soreness that doesn’t go away
- Tingling or numbness
- Shortness of breath
- Sleep problems
- Confusion
- Fever or shivering
- Abdominal pain
- Tinnitus, ringing in the ears
When You Can Wait for It To Heal on Its Own
In some instances, you may not need to go to the doctor following a car accident. Still, it’s always a good idea to ask a health professional for advice if you’re unsure. Following an accident, you may be able to heal the following types of injuries using at-home remedies:
- Bruising
- Stiffness
- Soreness (excluding the head and neck)
- Minor scrapes
Keep in mind: any symptoms lasting more than a few days could be a sign of a serious injury. See a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms above for a prolonged amount of time.
Get Information About Car Accident Injuries From 512 Pain Management Clinic
Just like car accidents themselves, car accident injuries can range from minor to severe, and the care needed will vary from case to case. If you aren’t sure whether or not you need medical care, you can ask a physician for advice.
At 512 Pain Management Clinic, we have the answers you need about medical treatment for car accident injuries.