Whiplash Symptoms After an Accident in San Diego
Whiplash is a neck injury, but its symptoms spread to your head, shoulders, arms, sleep, and concentration. Many people only connect them to the crash after several days.
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Why this happens, and what to do in San Diego
The sudden back-and-forth motion of the head strains the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the neck and upper back, and can irritate nearby nerves. Common symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headaches at the base of the skull, dizziness, shoulder and upper back pain, tingling in the arms or hands, fatigue, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, trouble concentrating, and disturbed sleep or mood. They often appear 24 to 72 hours after the crash, and sometimes later.
When this is a medical emergency
Go to an emergency room right away, don't wait for a regular appointment, if you have:
- Weakness or numbness in an arm or leg
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- A sudden, severe headache with vomiting, confusion, or drowsiness
- Loss of consciousness at any point after the crash
If you have any of these in San Diego, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room first. Do not wait for an appointment.
Care for this in San Diego
These are the types of care that accident patients with this problem most often need. Pick one to see how it works in San Diego.
Get matched with a doctor today
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We match patients in San Diego (San Diego County) with providers close to where they live or work. Tell us your neighborhood or cross streets when you reach out so the match is practical.
Whiplash Symptoms in nearby cities
Frequently asked questions
Is help available in San Diego?
Yes, we work with providers across San Diego County. Tell us you are in San Diego and a real person will match you with one near you. Availability depends on the provider and your situation.
How quickly can I be seen in San Diego?
Many providers who treat accident patients can see new patients within days, but it depends on the provider and your situation. Reach out as early as you can, since symptoms that start late are easier to document and treat when you are seen sooner. If it is an emergency in San Diego, go to the ER first.
How soon do whiplash symptoms start?
Most people notice them within 24 to 72 hours, but some feel nothing for a week or more. Adrenaline hides pain at first, so feeling fine right after a crash does not rule out whiplash.
Which whiplash symptoms are most often missed?
Headaches, dizziness, trouble concentrating, and poor sleep are the ones people most often blame on stress instead of the crash. If they started after the accident, mention them to the doctor.
Can I be seen if I have no insurance?
Yes. Many California providers see accident patients on a medical lien basis, so you are seen first and billing is worked out later. Terms vary by provider, so ask for them before you start.