Auto collisions may cause serious injuries, including damage to the nervous system. Many people are familiar with spinal cord injuries, but a car accident can harm other nerves. The autonomic nerves, for instance, control involuntary body functions. So you should know how autonomic nerve damage could affect your body.
The Mayo Clinic explains that autonomic nerve damage results in autonomic neuropathy. Various symptoms can result, some of which you might mistake for a brief moment of discomfort. However, autonomic neuropathy may get worse without treatment. Here is a look at what you might experience if a car accident damages your autonomic nerves.
Muscle symptoms
Since autonomic nerves control muscles, it would not be unusual for your limbs to feel weak. You may spot a possible sign of nerve problems if your eyelids or the rest of your face noticeably droops. Sometimes muscle contractions result. There are also cases when autonomic neuropathy interferes with the ability to speak.
Digestive and bowel symptoms
Since autonomic neuropathy can affect your digestive system, you could experience problems swallowing food. More seriously, autonomic nerve damage may cause vomiting some hours after eating. You might also experience incontinence or diarrhea.
Distorted autonomic functions
After an autonomic nerve injury, you may suffer one or more issues with various body functions that make it hard to carry out everyday activities. Different symptoms include dizziness, nausea, heartburn, an increased heart rate, and sweating during periods of inactivity or even in cold temperatures. Autonomic nerve problems can also interfere with attempts at intimacy.
A visit to your doctor might reveal the extent of your problem and guide you toward the proper treatment. Understanding your possible medical costs could also be an asset if a car accident was responsible for your injuries and you want to seek damages.
