Delayed Concussion Symptoms

Ryan Bradley | February 8, 2022 | Personal Injury

When some people hear the word “concussion,” they don’t think of a traumatic or dangerous injury. But the truth is that concussions can be very serious. In fact, they are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). 

Unfortunately, concussions are not always taken seriously, and they may go undiagnosed and untreated. That’s why it’s wise to become informed about head injuries. When you’re informed, you’ll be aware of delayed concussion symptoms and spot the warning signs early.

What Causes a Concussion?

Any time you receive a violent jolt or blow to the head, you risk a concussion. And any time that jolt or blow causes your brain to twist, shake, or deform (no matter how briefly), you risk damaging brain tissue. 

There is a range of activities that increase your risk of a concussion. Some of the more common dangerous activities include:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Concussions and TBIs are among the most common types of injuries in car accident victims. Whether you are shaken violently or hit your head on the dashboard or seat in front of you, head injuries can happen in the blink of an eye. However, wearing a seat belt can greatly reduce your risk.

Contact Sports

Some sports, such as boxing, football, hockey, and rugby, leave players constantly vulnerable to blows to the head. Other sports, including figure skating, gymnastics, and skiing, pose a fall risk. In either scenario, it’s best to wear protective gear whenever possible. 

Violent Crimes

If you are or have been a victim of domestic abuse or assault, you could be subjected to head trauma. Get familiar with the warning signs of concussions so that you know when to seek medical care.

What Are the Common Symptoms of a Concussion?

There are four categories of concussion symptoms. And each category can present in multiple ways. Here is a brief overview of what to watch for.

Sleep-related symptoms include: 

  • Daytime fatigue
  • Sleeping less or more than usual
  • Difficulty falling asleep or waking
  • Sleep apnea

Emotional symptoms include: 

  • Sadness
  • Irritability
  • Emotional highs and lows
  • Nervousness
  • Anxiety

Physical symptoms include:

  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Poor balance
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Blurred vision
  • Light and noise sensitivity
  • Decreased energy

Lastly, cognitive symptoms include:

  • Memory issues
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feeling as though you are moving in slow motion
  • Difficulty forming coherent thoughts

After a concussion, you may experience one, several, or all of these symptoms. The symptoms may also come and go or change with time. Never attempt to shake off, sleep off, or ignore a head injury. 

What Are Delayed Concussion Symptoms?

Because most concussion symptoms present immediately, many people don’t know that some symptoms can be delayed. It sometimes takes hours, days, or weeks for the effects of a concussion to be felt. As your brain heals and adapts, new symptoms can crop up.

The most common delayed concussion symptoms are:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Energy loss
  • Headaches
  • Memory issues

It’s always wise to seek medical attention after any accident. Even if you don’t believe that you have suffered a concussion, it’s wise to see a doctor if these symptoms persist. You may have injured yourself days or weeks ago without even realizing it happened.

What Are the Long-Term Health Effects of a Concussion?

Most concussions will come and go without any major issue. But if you continue to experience symptoms in the weeks and months after your injury, you may be suffering from post-concussion syndrome. 

What’s more, after one concussion, your risk of suffering another is higher than average. And if you do reinjure yourself, you could suffer from more devastating consequences like additional damage, swelling, and bleeding to the brain. 

You may even fall victim to a degenerative disease called CTE. Any serious concerns should be taken immediately to your primary care provider.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm For Help Today

For more information, please contact Bradley Law Personal Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free case evaluation today.

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