How to Describe Your Pain Accurately to a Doctor after a Car Accident

As a patient and victim of a car accident, it is very important that you provide your doctor with answers that are as accurate as possible.

If you’ve been in a car accident that caused you injuries, you will likely need to see doctors and sometimes undergo extensive investigations. You will also likely file an insurance claim to get compensation from the at-fault party and you will need hard evidence, like medical reports, test results, information from the accident scene, and so on to support your claim. Your case will ideally be based on objective, empiric evidence that the insurance company cannot deny or misinterpret. 

However, when it comes to our health problems, not everyone reacts the same to injury, starting from the pain threshold that can vary quite a lot from one person to another. 

When you are examined by a doctor, a big part of the consultation is an interview. The doctor will ask you specific questions, and your answers will be the base of the diagnosis and future referrals. It’s clear that, as a patient, you have the responsibility to provide answers that are as accurate as possible.

One of the main symptoms of car accident injuries is pain. In most cases, you will feel discomfort and pain. How should you describe your pain to the doctor to get an accurate evaluation? Here are some of the questions your doctor might ask in order to get an accurate picture of your pain. 

Where Is Your Pain Located?

Sometimes, pain can be dispersed in an area larger than the injury itself. In other cases, the location of your pain might not coincide with the injury spot. If you suffer from pain, start writing down a journal where you describe how you feel and how your condition evolves. If your pain is constant, you most probably need immediate medical attention. 

What Type of Pain Is It?

Pain can feel differently, depending on the place and type of injury. There are many words to describe your pain: dull, sharp, stabbing, burning, nauseating, crushing, etc. Even if you might not have the perfect words to describe your pain, try to do it as best as you can, providing details and using comparisons to make the doctor understand exactly how it feels. 

Don’t hesitate to use more colloquial words to describe your pain, if they help you paint a clearer picture to the doctor.

What Makes the Pain Go Away? What Triggers It?

It’s wise to keep a journal of your symptoms as soon as possible after the accident. It’s the best way to see how your symptoms evolve, and what are the circumstances that trigger your symptoms. Take notice of what makes you feel better, write down all the medication you take, and how much of it, and let the doctor know how your treatment goes. 

Speak With an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

Speak with an experienced St. Louis auto accident attorney as soon as possible after a car accident. They can help take care of the legal aspect of your claim while you focus on your physical recovery.