Harlene Labrum | March 22, 2024 | Brain Injuries

Delayed Concussion Symptoms

 Delayed Concussion Symptoms

Whether you were involved in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another type of incident, navigating the aftermath can be a nightmare, especially if you suffered severe injuries. One of the most traumatic forms of injuries you can suffer is a concussion. 

In many instances, concussion symptoms will manifest very soon after your accident. However, it is possible to experience delayed concussion symptoms. Confusion, headaches, dizziness, and delayed vomiting after a concussion are just a few of the symptoms you might encounter. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that impacts the way your brain works. Typically, the effects of a concussion are temporary, but they can be severe and affect everything from your balance and coordination to your memory. 

Concussions are much like a bruise to your brain. They are typically caused by an impact on the head. Violent shaking of your head and upper body could also cause a concussion. 

Some potential causes of a concussion include:

These brain injuries can be a bit unpredictable. There isn’t a “normal” concussion. Some people experience concussion symptoms right away, while others have delayed symptoms. 

Even if you have had a concussion before, the scope and severity of your symptoms can be different than the previous incident. That’s why it’s important to be familiar with rapid onset and delayed concussion symptoms. If you experience symptoms, seek help right away. 

Common Concussion Symptoms 

If you’ve suffered an impact on your head, you’ll probably have a headache almost immediately after the incident. This is one common sign of a concussion, but it could just be a headache caused by the impact. 

Therefore, you need to look for a few other signs and symptoms, such as:

  • Ringing in the ears
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Blurry vision
  • Nausea
  • Confusion or a feeling of fogginess
  • Dizziness
  • Amnesia

There are several other concussion symptoms that you may not notice, but others will be able to observe them. 

A few examples include:

  • Dazed appearance
  • Forgetfulness
  • Delayed response to questions
  • Slurred speech
  • Temporary loss of consciousness

Remember that every concussion is unique, so you might experience only a couple of these symptoms, or you could display most of them. 

Can Concussion Symptoms Be Delayed?

Some concussion symptoms can be delayed. Typically, if you have a concussion, you’ll notice at least a few of the aforementioned symptoms right away. However, some other symptoms won’t set in until later. 

Delayed concussion symptoms are usually signs of a TBI and can have lasting impacts on your life. Even if your symptoms feel mild, seek medical help right away. Getting prompt care is key to addressing and resolving your condition. 

Can Concussion Symptoms Come and Go? 

Much like a headache, concussion symptoms can come and go. Think about when you have a migraine. If you lie down in a quiet, dark room and close your eyes, your symptoms might subside or, at the very least, become less prominent. The same basic premise can apply to your concussion.

Bright lights, loud noises, and activity may aggravate your concussion. Conversely, taking it easy and getting rest can help alleviate some symptoms. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with a concussion, it’s vital that you follow the recommendations of your medical provider. They can give practical tips to help you alleviate your discomfort. 

Signs of a Delayed Concussion

Delayed concussion symptoms include:

  • Concentration issues
  • Irritability and other personality changes
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Sensitivity to noise and light
  • Smell and taste disorders
  • Depression

Delayed concussion symptoms can be more concerning than symptoms that appear right away. That is because delayed symptoms often include psychological issues, mood changes, depression, and sleep disturbances.

How Long Do Delayed Concussion Symptoms Last?

The length of your concussion symptoms will vary depending on your unique health history and the severity of the injury. Roughly 80% of concussions heal within 7 to 14 days. However, if you suffer a mild TBI, it can take months to recover. 

Depending on the severity of your TBI, you may require long-term psychological care, which includes therapy sessions and medication. These treatments can be incredibly costly and disruptive to your daily life. Therefore, it’s vital to seek medical and legal advice following an accident that causes a concussion, especially if you believe someone else is liable for your injuries. 

What To Do If You’ve Got Delayed Concussion Symptoms

First and foremost, seek medical attention right away. A licensed medical provider can evaluate your delayed concussion symptoms and determine whether you are suffering from any other medical issues, such as a brain bleed or brain swelling. They’ll also provide guidance on dealing with your concussion symptoms and will likely refer you to a neurologist for follow-up care.

Once you’ve addressed your delayed concussion symptoms, it’s time to think long-term. If your personal injury was caused by a slip and fall, car crash, or other event that resulted from someone else’s actions or negligence, you may have legal recourse.

A personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and help you decide how to proceed. Depending on the circumstances of your incident, you may be able to seek compensation, including money for your medical care, as well as damages for your pain and suffering.

As noted above, most people bounce back from a concussion within a few weeks. However, there are no guarantees with a concussion. Your symptoms could linger for weeks or even months, and it’s important that you have the resources you need to focus on getting better.

Contact the Nashville Personal Injury Attorneys at Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers Today About a Concussion Injury Case

If you are experiencing delayed concussion symptoms, seek medical help right away. Then, follow up with a skilled personal injury lawyer who can help you decide what to do next.

For more information, please contact the Nashville personal injury law firm of Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve Nashville, Brentwood, and its surrounding areas in Tennessee:

Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers – Nashville
315 Deaderick St, Suite 1525
Nashville, TN 37238
(615) 685-8546

Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers – Brentwood
320 Seven Springs Way, Suite 250
Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 455-3384