How Serious is Nerve Damage?

Nerve damage can range from mild to severe, and its seriousness largely depends on the extent, location, and cause of the damage. In most cases, doctors take nerve damage extremely seriously. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly affect outcomes, while overlooking this condition can lead to further complications. It is important to look out for the symptoms and to see a doctor if you believe you might have suffered nerve damage in an accident.

Symptoms of nerve damage

Symptoms of nerve damage can vary significantly depending on the type of nerve affected (sensory, motor, or autonomic) and the severity and location of the damage.

Here are some common symptoms associated with each type of nerve:

• Autonomic nerves: These nerves control bodily functions that occur automatically, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. Damage can cause an inability to sense chest pain, excessive sweating or the inability to sweat, lightheadedness, dry eyes and mouth, incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and difficulty digesting food.
• Motor nerves: These nerves control muscle movements. Damage to motor nerves can lead to muscle weakness, muscle atrophy, twitching or uncontrolled muscle movements, and paralysis (if severe).
• Sensory nerves: These nerves relay information about sensations to your brain. Damage can cause numbness, tingling, sharp, burning, or throbbing pain, sensitivity to touch or temperature, and positional awareness issues.

Other general symptoms of nerve damage might include changes in blood pressure that lead to lightheadedness or dizziness, gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, constipation, or incontinence, and irregular heartbeat.

• Location: The impact of nerve damage also depends on where it occurs. Damage to nerves controlling breathing, heart rate, or other vital functions can be life-threatening, while damage to a sensory nerve in a finger, though potentially debilitating, might not be considered
• Long-term effects: Serious nerve damage can result in chronic pain, permanent disability, or loss of certain functions. These effects can impact a person’s quality of life, ability to work, and overall well-being.
• Treatment and recovery: Some nerve damage can be treated or managed with medication, physical therapy, or surgery, leading to partial or full recovery. However, severe cases might result in long-term or permanent impairment.
• Complications: Serious nerve damage can lead to complications like neuropathic pain, which is difficult to manage, or complex regional pain syndrome, a chronic pain condition that can be triggered by nerve damage.

Types of nerve damage sustained in auto accidents

Car accidents can cause various types of nerve damage due to the force of impact, sudden movements, and the potential for parts of the body to be compressed or stretched. Here are some common types:

• Whiplash-associated disorders: These involve damage to the cervical nerves, which can occur during rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, typical in rear-end collisions. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and sensory disturbances like tingling in the arms.
• Lacerations or avulsions: Direct trauma from the accident can sever or damage nerves. For instance, nerves in the arms or legs may be cut or torn if they are crushed or sharply twisted during the accident.
• Compression neuropathies: Pressure from blunt trauma can compress nerves. A common example is “seatbelt neuropathy,” where the seatbelt force during a crash compresses nerves in the shoulder or abdominal area, potentially leading to symptoms in the chest, abdomen, or down the arm.
• Spinal cord injuries: Severe impacts can damage the nerves within the spinal cord. Depending on the level and severity of the injury, this can lead to partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and organ dysfunction.
• Radiculopathy: This occurs when nerves are compressed or irritated at the point where they exit the spine. Symptoms include radiating pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling along the affected nerve, which could be caused by herniated discs or displaced vertebrae during the accident.
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI): While primarily an injury to the brain, a TBI can also affect nerve pathways, causing problems with balance, coordination, and reflexive responses.

Recovery from nerve damage due to car accidents can vary widely, depending on the type and severity of the injury and the treatment received.

How is nerve damage treated?

Early and comprehensive medical evaluation following an accident is crucial for identifying nerve damage and initiating appropriate treatment. Treatment typically involves a combination of approaches tailored to the injury’s type, severity, and underlying cause. Here’s an overview:

• Medical management: Various medications can help manage symptoms of nerve damage. Pain relievers (from over-the-counter options like ibuprofen to prescription painkillers), anti-seizure medications (like gabapentin or pregabalin), and antidepressants (such as amitriptyline) are commonly used to control pain and discomfort. Creams containing capsaicin or lidocaine may be used to numb the pain in localized areas.
• Physical therapy: Customized exercise programs can help maintain muscle strength and improve motor function, which may be compromised due to nerve damage. Techniques such as massage, mobilization, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can help relieve pain and improve function.
• Surgical options: The nerve may be repaired by reconnecting nerve endings if they are severed or replacing damaged sections of nerves with nerves from other parts of the body. Decompression surgery can relieve pressure on nerves and is frequently used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome or pinched nerves in the spine.
• Lifestyle modifications: Ensuring adequate B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids can support nerve health. Controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes or adjusting lifestyle habits can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
• Alternative therapies: Acupuncture can help relieve pain and improve nerve function. Biofeedback helps patients gain awareness and control over muscle tension to help manage pain.
• Assistive devices: Braces or splints can help maintain proper alignment and reduce pain. Wheelchairs or walking aids assist mobility when muscle weakness or balance issues occur.
• Psychological support: Counseling or therapy is often useful in managing the emotional and psychological impacts of living with chronic pain and disability due to nerve damage.

The choice of treatment largely depends on the individual’s specific circumstances and needs, including the progress of the nerve damage and the patient’s overall health. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for preventing further nerve deterioration and improving outcomes.

At Carmody and Ging, our Pittsburgh personal injury lawyers determine why accidents cause nerve damage and who is responsible. To schedule a free consultation with an experienced Pittsburgh injury attorney, call us or fill out our contact form today.