Even the most minor car accidents can lead to injuries. Upset stomach or vomiting following a car accident are some of the most common side effects and can be the result of many different kinds of injuries. Symptoms of a car accident injury may not always be present immediately, so if you experience problems of any kind, see a doctor immediately.
Medical Reasons for Nausea and Vomiting After a Car Accident
Our digestive systems can be sensitive to injury or trauma, and there can be many reasons for upset stomach following a car accident. Seat belts, while they keep us safe, can also cause bruising, irritation, and damage to internal systems. Even minor crashes can cause vertigo, resulting in nausea or vomiting. Anxiety, stress, and fear that come naturally with car accidents can cause nausea and in some cases vomiting, even when no physical issues are present.
However, nausea and vomiting can also be the first symptom of a much more serious injury. When someone experiences a head, neck, or brain injury, nausea and vomiting are usually a first symptom or side effect. Other times, nausea and vomiting can be a sign that the person is experiencing shock after the accident. Your nausea could be the first symptom of something serious, such as traumatic brain injury, internal organ damage, whiplash, or broken bones.
Treating Nausea and Vomiting After a Car Accident
It is important to recognize that nausea and vomiting are symptoms and not the cause. Nausea and vomiting can be the cause of some other underlying injury, and determining that reason is necessary to ensure the right treatment. Depending on the injury, anti-nausea medication may be provided to help make the patient more comfortable. Finding the right auto injury doctor is important if you’re experiencing nausea or vomiting after an auto accident.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Nausea and Vomiting
It is always better to be safe than sorry. During an accident or other traumatic situation, our bodies create endorphins which help block pain and other signals from the body, which allow you to get to safety. As these endorphins block pain, you may not experience anything immediately and assume you are healthy and uninjured. However, when the endorphins wear off, the pain, nausea, and anxiety your body is experiencing will finally be something you feel. This could happen hours or days later.
It is important not to discount the response of your body to a car accident. Upset stomach, vomiting, and nausea can all point to a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. When nausea or vomiting is accompanied by dizziness, confusion, numbness or tingling, or head or neck pain, seek emergency medical care.
Understanding that nausea and vomiting can be symptoms of major medical problems can help you make the best decision about seeking medical help after an accident. If you experience nausea or vomiting following an automobile accident, seeking medical attention quickly can help ensure a full recovery.
Make an appointment today with our team of doctors at Florida Physical Medicine if you are experiencing nausea or vomiting as the result of an auto accident. Our experienced team of car accident doctors can examine your injuries, determine the correct diagnosis, and provide an individualized treatment plan to help you feel better, fast.
