Are Delayed Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation in NC?

Examples of Delayed Injuries

Delayed injuries from work come in many forms. Some common examples in North Carolina include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – A blow to the head doesn’t always cause immediate symptoms. Hours or days later, a worker might experience headaches, dizziness, memory problems, or sensitivity to light. TBIs can result from falls, being struck by machinery or equipment, or on-the-job vehicle collisions.
• Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spine may not be apparent right away, especially if swelling or nerve issues develop slowly. Symptoms like numbness, weakness, or pain in the back, legs, or arms may appear over time. These injuries are often the result of heavy lifting, slips, or falls.
• Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) – These occupational diseases develop gradually from repeating the same motion over and over. Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and bursitis are common examples. RSIs often affect workers who regularly type, lift, or use power tools. Symptoms like pain or stiffness may worsen with time.
• Hearing loss – Long-term exposure to loud machinery or tools can lead to gradual hearing loss. Because it develops slowly, many workers don’t realize there’s a problem until their ability to hear is substantially compromised.
• Whiplash and neck injuries – These injuries are common in vehicle-related work accidents or falls. Pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion may not set in until hours or days after the initial incident.
• Internal injuries – A blow to the abdomen or chest might not seem serious at first. But internal bleeding or organ damage can worsen over time. These injuries may show up later with symptoms like nausea, swelling, or severe pain.
• Joint injuries – Damage to knee, shoulder, or hip joints may seem minor at first but can develop into serious problems if left untreated. Workers may notice swelling, instability, or pain days after the injury occurred.

Delayed Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore After a Work Accident

Symptoms of delayed injuries from a work accident can be challenging to recognize. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Back, neck, and shoulder pain – Pain in these areas may not appear until hours or days after a fall, heavy lifting, or awkward movements. This discomfort is often a sign of muscle strain, herniated discs, or even spinal cord injuries. These conditions may worsen if ignored, leading to long-term mobility issues or chronic pain.
• Headaches – A headache after a workplace accident might seem minor at first. But it can be a sign of something more serious, such as a traumatic brain injury. Delayed headaches may also point to neck injuries.
• Abdominal pain – Pain or discomfort in the stomach after a workplace incident is often a red flag for an underlying injury. It may signal internal bleeding or organ damage, especially if a worker suffered a blow to their abdomen. Delayed internal injuries can be life-threatening without quick treatment.
• Tingling or numbness – These sensations in the arms, legs, hands, or feet may suggest nerve injury, spinal cord injuries, or repetitive strain issues. Workers should not ignore this symptom, as it may point to severe underlying problems.
• Dizziness or balance issues – Feeling dizzy or off balance after a workplace accident can be a sign of a concussion, inner ear injury, or another neurological issue. These symptoms may come on slowly and should never be brushed off.
• Swelling or stiffness – Swelling around joints or muscles may indicate soft tissue damage, sprains, or bursitis. Stiffness that worsens over time could point to repetitive stress injuries or joint strain.
• Vision problems – Blurred or double vision can be a sign of head trauma, including TBIs or eye injuries, especially after a blow to the head or face.