Headaches after a car accident

Concussion and neurological danger signs require emergency care

Seek emergency help right away for any of these signs:

• Worsening confusion or unusual behavior.
• Loss of consciousness or a seizure.
• Repeated vomiting or slurred speech.
• New weakness or numbness, or unequal pupils.
• Trouble staying awake or major balance problems.
• A rapidly worsening headache.

The CDC lists concussion signs and danger signs(opens in a new tab). The MedlinePlus headache guide(opens in a new tab) also flags sudden, explosive, or "worst ever" headaches. Neurological headaches also need immediate medical care.

If head injury is possible, ask a medical provider to check you for a concussion. A chiropractic office does not provide concussion or neurological care.

Describe the timing, location, and related symptoms

Write down:

• When the first headache began.
• Where it starts and whether it travels.
• Whether it is pressure, throbbing, sharp, or unfamiliar.
• Whether light, sound, neck movement, exertion, screens, or position changes it.
• Whether nausea, dizziness, confusion, vision change, or balance trouble occurs.
• Whether it is improving, stable, or worsening.
• What medical evaluation has already occurred.

Avoid forcing the symptom into a label. "Different from my usual migraine" is important information.

When neck-related evaluation may be considered

Some headaches come with neck stiffness or begin near the base of the skull. Even so, the crash history and a nerve check come first — danger signs have to be ruled out before anything else makes sense. If the problem then looks like a muscle or joint issue, an exam may look at the neck and nearby function.

Read whiplash after a crash and neck pain after a crash. If no collision occurred, use the everyday headache guide.

Pain relief does not rule out a medical concern

A symptom that eases for a while can still need a check. Follow emergency or medical instructions. If a provider checked you for a concussion and said to wait, do not go back to driving, work, or sports yet.

Frequently asked questions

Choose the care setting that matches the symptoms

Call 911 for danger signs. For a non-emergency muscle or joint question after medical concerns are addressed, call (740) 876-8394.

You don't need answers to any of this before calling — describing what changed is enough.

More reading — injury index, accident care, concussion warning signs, and first visit.

This page provides general information. It cannot diagnose an injury or replace emergency or medical care.