Headache after a car crash: where it comes from and when it is urgent

A headache is one of the most common complaints after a crash, and one of the easiest to brush off: “it’s stress”, “I slept badly”. Sometimes it is. But a headache that starts after an accident deserves more attention than an ordinary one.

The most important thing first

MedlinePlus, from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, says to call 911 or go to the emergency room if a headache follows a head injury. Also if:

• It comes on suddenly and is explosive or violent.
• It is the worst headache you have ever had.
• It comes with slurred speech, vision changes, trouble moving your arms or legs, loss of balance, confusion or memory loss.
• It comes with fever, a stiff neck, nausea and vomiting.

If you hit your head in the crash and it hurts, do not wait for an appointment.

Where it usually comes from

The neck. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons lists a headache at the back of the head among the symptoms of whiplash, along with neck pain and stiffness. That pain does not always appear right away: it can take hours, or until the next day.

A concussion. A hard jolt is enough to injure the brain, even if the head does not hit anything. According to the CDC, headache is one of the most common concussion symptoms, and some symptoms take hours or days to appear. It usually comes with others: dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, trouble concentrating or disrupted sleep.

The warning sign that comes later

The CDC note that a headache that gets worse and does not go away is a danger sign after a concussion, as are repeated vomiting, confusion, weakness or numbness, or extreme drowsiness. If your headache keeps getting worse in the days after the crash, get care right away.

MedlinePlus also recommends seeing a doctor promptly if a headache gets worse over 24 hours.

Why it is worth getting checked

A doctor can tell whether the pain comes from the neck, a concussion or something else, tell you what is safe to do while you recover and when to go back to driving or work. They also document from the start what the crash did to you, which your insurer and, if you have one, your attorney will look at later.

How we handle it at the clinic

We treat headaches and concussion symptoms after an accident: we assess you, document what we find and follow up. In Utah, care for the accident is normally covered by the PIP on your own auto policy, and if you have an attorney we share your records with them directly. The visit happens in English or Spanish, whichever you prefer.

Sources

• MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Headache.
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo). Neck Sprain.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Symptoms of Mild TBI and Concussion.

---

This article is general information about our clinic and about headaches after an accident. It is not medical or legal advice and does not replace a consultation with a professional. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.