Whiplash

So everyone has heard of whiplash but what exactly are the symptoms other than a stiff neck?

It is estimated that 1 in 5 people involved in a road traffic accident suffer from whiplash.  However, it may take several days for the symptoms to develop.

Common Symptoms

• Neck pain & restricted neck movement.
• Headaches.
• Lower back pain caused by injury to discs.
• Nausea.

Other Symptoms

• Tingling/pain/heaviness in the arm.
• Pain in arm and shoulders.
• Memory problems.
• Trouble concentrating,
• Sleep loss.
• Depression.
• Irritability.
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears).
• Vertigo (dizziness or loss of balance).
• Exhaustion.
• Blurred vision.
• Dysphagia – difficulty swallowing.
• Paraesthesia to upper body – burning, prickling, tingling felt on the skin.

Children

Children are often too young to explain when they are in pain where so it is important that you keep a look out for the following symptoms that point towards them suffering from whiplash:

• General tiredness.
• Dizziness or giddiness.
• Crying more than usual.
• Interrupted sleeping pattern.
• Going off food/drink for no other apparent reason.

As babies spines are still developing it is particularly important to get them checked over by a medical expert as soon as possible.

In order to ease the symptoms of a whiplash injury applying an ice bag to the neck within the first 24 hours will help relieve inflammation.  It is recommended that you lie on the bed with your head resting on the ice pack (covered in a towel) for 20 minutes at a time with your head supported by a pillow.

Also, remember that Accident Claims Advisory can help you obtain maximum compensation for your claim, of which you will receive 100%.