Whether you have been in an auto collision or hurt while on the clock at work, sustaining an injury is a serious problem that can derail your life and well-being. You likely already know this, though, and are looking for what to do next. As you seek medical care, attempt to get back on your feet and deal with the aftermath of the accident, it is completely natural to feel overwhelmed.
According to CNN, some injuries—head trauma, in particular—can quickly escalate from a seemingly minor hurt to a major medical crisis. You should never overlook or underestimate symptoms, and keeping a log of them can have a number of benefits to you as you take time to recover.
1. Support your claims
A personal injury is often not just a health issue. It can also be a legal issue, too. If your injuries occurred as the result of a reckless driver or unsafe conditions at work, the party who is responsible for your pain should be held accountable. If you claim an injury, keeping a journal of symptoms can be a source of substantive support when it comes time to prove your suffering.
2. Track your condition
You should also use a journal to proactively track your condition. If your injury worsens and you are not deliberately paying attention to it, you might not notice a consistent change for days. When you purposefully track and journal your symptoms, however, you can immediately see whether you are recovering or not. This, too, is important to any legal case that may arise.
3. Improve health care
Chronicling your symptoms has one definite benefit that should motivate you. When you keep track of your condition in detail, you can communicate more effectively with your health care provider and improve the quality of the care you receive. Recovery is in your control, and with help from a doctor, you may be able to overcome your symptoms and resume your life more quickly.
