A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head. While most people who suffer concussions experience the effects immediately, it’s not uncommon for delayed symptoms to show up hours or even days after the initial injury. For this reason, it helps to know the signs so you can seek treatment quickly.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion occurs when the brain is jolted or shaken violently inside the skull, which disrupts its normal processes and ability to function properly. This can lead to symptoms that can range from mild confusion to severe neurological problems.
While most symptoms show up immediately after the attributable event, others can take time to develop. When this happens, the injured person can be left unaware of the full extent of their condition.
Concussions are generally considered a mild form of TBI. Even so, they should never be taken lightly. Though not typically life-threatening, even minor brain trauma can have serious consequences if not treated swiftly and properly.
Can Concussion Symptoms Be Delayed?
In short, yes. There can be a delay in the emergence of symptoms because the brain has a complicated response to physical trauma, which means the telltale signs might not appear right away. Factors like swelling, chemical changes in the brain, or additional stress on the body can all contribute to the symptoms of a concussion being delayed.
Delayed symptoms are particularly common in cases where the initial injury seemed to be relatively minor. Many people dismiss head injuries at first if they feel okay, only to run into problems hours or days later. Athletes, for example, sometimes return to play too soon without realizing that their dizziness or headaches get worse with more physical activity.
Common Signs of a Delayed Concussion
Recognizing the warning signs of a delayed concussion is critical to making sure you get the care you need and improving your chances of avoiding long-term complications.
Some common symptoms that don’t always manifest immediately after a head injury include:
- Persistent or worsening headaches
- Problems with memory, concentration, or cognition
- Confusion
- Insomnia, excessive sleepiness, or other sleep disruptions
- Anxiety, depression, or irritability
- Nausea, dizziness, or blurred vision
In some cases, there may be delayed vomiting after concussions, which is an indication that the injury is more serious than you might have initially thought. Vomiting, in general, can point to increased pressure in the brain or internal bleeding, both of which are medical emergencies that require immediate attention.
Why Are Concussion Symptoms Sometimes Delayed?
The delayed onset of concussion symptoms can be attributed to the brain’s complex reaction to physical trauma. When the organ sustains a shock or becomes injured, it undergoes chemical and physical changes that may not always cause immediately noticeable effects.
For example:
- Swelling: Brain tissue can swell gradually for a long time after the injury, leading to delayed symptoms
- Secondary Injuries: Other complications, such as bleeding or inflammation, can show up much later and present subtle symptoms
- Activity Levels: Increased physical or mental activity after an injury can exacerbate the victim’s symptoms, making them easier to notice
These factors serve to explain why it can be dangerous to ignore even minor head injuries.
It’s especially important to avoid taking part in any strenuous activities — either physical or mental — that could cause additional stress on the brain until a doctor says you’re fully recovered.
Can Concussion Symptoms Come and Go?
It’s possible for concussion symptoms to wax and wane, which can cause some sufferers to think they’ve recovered when they actually haven’t.
Symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or headaches can be relatively minor one day and unbearable the next. The fluctuations depend on the individual’s stress and activity levels and whether they’re getting enough rest.
This intermittent nature can make it difficult to pinpoint how bad the injury actually is without the help of a doctor. Concussions are dynamic, which means their effects can evolve over time. If symptoms seem to be improving but then come back, it’s a good idea to get yourself examined to rule out any serious issues.
The Long-Term Risks of Ignoring a Delayed Concussion
Failing to recognize or deal with a delayed concussion can lead to serious complications, including:
- Post-concussion syndrome (PCS), which is when symptoms linger for weeks or months
- Second impact syndrome, or suffering another head injury before fully recovering from the first
- Memory loss or other enduring neurological issues
- Mental health concerns, such as mood swings, depression, anxiety, and PTSD
Prompt treatment can greatly reduce these risks and prevent complications from escalating into more worrisome problems.
What To Do If You Suspect a Delayed Concussion
If you experience the symptoms of a delayed concussion, it’s crucial to act quickly and take the following steps:
- Get checked out by a doctor, even if your symptoms seem mild or you feel fine otherwise
- Avoid strenuous activities, as mental and physical rest are critical for recovery
- Keep track of any changes or new symptoms that develop
- Avoid exposure to anything that might strain the brain, including screens, bright lights, and loud noises
- Follow your doctor’s specific recovery guidelines closely
Furthermore, educating yourself and others about the signs of a delayed concussion can make a world of difference. Knowledge can be a powerful tool for preventing further harm and ensuring proper treatment.
Early Recognition Saves Lives
Delayed concussions are often overlooked among the potential consequences of head injuries. However, knowing the warning signs and possible risks can make a major difference in your recovery and overall well-being.
Whether your symptoms appear right away or weeks after the fact, you should never ignore them, especially if they occur after a car crash or similar traumatic event.
Residents of St. Louis can mitigate long-term complications by prioritizing their safety and visiting the hospital after any type of head injury. Awareness and vigilance are paramount when dealing with traumatic brain injuries. Recognize the signs of a concussion and act quickly to prevent minor injuries from becoming life-altering conditions.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you were injured in an accident in St. Louis due to someone else’s careless or negligent actions, contact an experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. Your attorney will fight for fair compensation, and they don’t get paid unless you win.
For more information, contact the attorneys at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers we proudly serve all throughout Missouri, including St. Louis County, and we have offices in St. Louis, Chesterfield, Clayton, and Creve Coeur.
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – St. Louis Office
1010 Market Street, Suite 1605
St. Louis, Missouri
(636) 519-0085
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Chesterfield Office
400 Chesterfield Center Suite 400
Chesterfield, MO 63017
(636) 999-9587
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Creve Coeur Office
11628 Old Ballas Rd, Suite 320
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
(314) 557-2869
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Clayton Office
7733 Forsyth Blvd, Suite 1100
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 804-4569