Dangers of Leaning on OTC Medications After a Collision
There are a myriad of injuries, both apparent and hidden, that can be sustained as a result of a Pennsylvania or New Jersey traffic accident. Because of this, it’s common for individuals to experience pain and discomfort in the aftermath of a collision. To cope with these issues and attempt to return to daily tasks, many people turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
While OTC medications can provide temporary relief, they should not be a substitute for proper medical care. Drug store pain relief for car accident injuries may be one part of your treatment plan, but having your health assessed by a medical professional is necessary, both for your own well-being and to strengthen your chances of financial recovery should you decide to work with a Bucks County personal injury attorney at a later date.
Understanding the Appeal and Dangers of OTC Medications
OTC medications are convenient and affordable, so they are often the go-to choice for pain relief. These medications provide temporary relief for headaches, muscle pain, and inflammation, which are all possible after car accidents.
There are benefits to OTC medications when recovering from an accident, but understanding the dangers associated with relying solely on them after a car accident is part of protecting yourself, too.
- Masking symptoms. OTC medications can be so effective in reducing pain that they may mask the symptoms of more serious injuries, leading to a false sense of security and individuals underestimating the severity of their condition.
- Delayed diagnosis. Relying on drug store medications in lieu of seeking professional medical care risks delaying a diagnosis and treatment. There are common car accident injuries, such as internal bleeding or whiplash, that may not exhibit immediate symptoms but can worsen over time without proper medical care.
- Potential for overuse. All medications need to be used responsibly and most are not intended for long-term use. When a person takes OTC medications for an extended period of time it can lead to overuse, which may result in liver, kidney, or gastrointestinal problems.
- Risk of interactions. Drugs, prescribed or accessed through a local drug store, have the potential to interact with other medications or medical conditions. When a person uses them without professional guidance, they may inadvertently be causing other health issues.
- Legal implications. When you file a personal injury claim following a car accident, evidence will be critical to securing the settlement you need. If you solely rely on OTC medications it could weaken your case should an insurance company argue that you would have gone to a doctor if your injuries were truly serious.
With a proper diagnosis, you can receive treatment tailored to your specific injuries, ensuring a quicker and more effective recovery. Also, seeking medical care creates a documented record of your injuries and their relationship to the accident. This documentation can be used by an experienced Bucks County family attorney to push back on low ball offers.
How are you managing post-accident pain? Talk to the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. about the importance of a medical assessment. Call 215-968-6602 to schedule your consultation today.
