Are there any long-term side effects from getting whiplash in a car crash?

A:

Actually, yes.  Many people mistakenly think that whiplash is no big deal and pretty common after a car or truck crash.  While it can be minor and resolve without issue, it can – especially if serious and untreated – lead to long-term pain and suffering.

Initial symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, neck stiffness, shoulder tightness, numbness or tingling, headaches, dizziness, nausea, or blurred vision.  If left untreated, a bad case of whiplash can lead to bone and joint pain (osteoarthritis) or premature disc degeneration (when your spine breaks down and ages faster than it should).

If you suspect that you may have sustained neck damage in a car accident, it is in your best interest to visit a doctor right away.  Because whiplash symptoms can take time to develop, you want to stay on top of any injury so it does not worsen to the point of no return.