When you think about car accident injuries, the first things that probably come to mind are broken bones, whiplash, or bruising. However, one symptom that is often overlooked but can be equally alarming is a persistent cough. It may seem harmless at first, but a cough following a car accident could signal serious internal injuries or complications.
In this post, we’ll discuss the common causes of a post-accident cough, when you should be worried, and how an experienced car accident lawyer can help if you find yourself dealing with medical complications and insurance claims.
Why Am I Coughing After a Car Accident?
If you’ve developed a cough after a car accident, you might be wondering about the underlying cause. There are several reasons you might experience this symptom, ranging from minor to life-threatening:
1. Chest Trauma and Bruising
- Explanation: The force from the impact of a car accident can cause trauma to your chest area. Even if you were wearing a seatbelt, you may have suffered chest bruising or injuries to the lungs or ribs.
- Symptoms: Chest trauma can result in pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. This can be due to fluid buildup or inflammation.
2. Whiplash and Nerve Impact
- Explanation: Whiplash is a common neck injury resulting from the sudden back-and-forth movement of your head during a collision. Sometimes, nerve damage from whiplash can lead to respiratory issues or a reflexive cough.
- Symptoms: Neck stiffness, headaches, and a dry cough can all accompany whiplash injuries.
3. Lung Contusion
- Explanation: A lung contusion is essentially a bruise on the lung tissue caused by blunt force trauma. The impact can damage the lung’s blood vessels, leading to fluid leakage and impaired oxygen exchange.
- Symptoms: Shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and severe chest pain can be indicative of a lung contusion. This injury requires immediate medical attention.
4. Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)
- Explanation: In severe cases, trauma from a car accident can cause air to escape from the lung, filling the space between the lung and the chest wall. This condition, known as a pneumothorax, can lead to a collapsed lung.
- Symptoms: Rapid breathing, chest tightness, and a dry or painful cough are signs that you may have a pneumothorax.
5. Internal Bleeding or Organ Damage
- Explanation: The impact of an accident can also result in internal bleeding, especially around the chest or abdomen, which can put pressure on the lungs and diaphragm.
- Symptoms: A cough accompanied by dizziness, extreme fatigue, or abdominal pain could be a sign of internal organ damage and warrants immediate medical attention.
When to See a Doctor
It’s crucial to understand that even if your cough seems mild, underlying injuries can worsen over time. You should seek medical care if:
- Your cough lasts more than a few days.
- You experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness.
- You notice blood in your cough.
- You have difficulty breathing or a tight feeling in your chest.
Getting a thorough medical examination after an accident is essential. This not only ensures that you receive appropriate care but also provides documentation of your injuries, which can be crucial if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Legal Steps to Take if You Have a Persistent Cough After a Car Accident
Dealing with injuries after a car accident can be both physically and emotionally overwhelming. Besides focusing on recovery, you may also have to deal with medical bills, insurance claims, and possible long-term complications. Here’s how a car accident attorney can assist you:
1. Documenting Your Injuries
An experienced attorney can help you compile all necessary medical records and evidence to support your claim. This includes documentation of any symptoms, like a persistent cough, that could indicate serious underlying injuries.
2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize or deny claims. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
3. Pursuing Compensation for Long-Term Care
If your cough or other symptoms develop into long-term health issues, you may need additional medical treatment. A lawyer can help calculate the future cost of care and ensure it is included in your settlement.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one has developed a cough or any other concerning symptoms following a car accident, it’s crucial to speak with a professional. You might be entitled to compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Fill out the form below to get a free case evaluation from our team of experienced car accident lawyers. We’ll review your case and provide personalized advice on how to proceed.