Tyler Gross | January 22, 2025 | Brain Injuries
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Caused by a blow to the head or a jarring movement that interrupts the brain’s ability to function, this injury is generally milder than other kinds of TBIs. Concussion symptoms often appear immediately, but sometimes, they can take hours, days, or even weeks to manifest.
This delay in symptoms can make it challenging to recognize whether you have a concussion, which can also complicate treatment. If you’ve been in a car crash or other truck accident where you’ve hit your head, you’ll want to know the signs of a delayed concussion to help prevent long-term problems and ensure your recovery.
Can Concussion Symptoms Be Delayed?
Concussion symptoms can be delayed for a number of reasons. The brain’s response to trauma usually involves swelling and chemical changes, both of which can take time to develop. As time goes on, symptoms that weren’t immediately apparent can start to show. Your age, the severity of the injury, and your overall health can influence how quickly symptoms appear.
Delayed symptoms can be especially common in mild concussions, where the initial blow might not have been hard enough to cause any concern. However, you want to stay vigilant and see a doctor if symptoms get worse or new problems arise.
Can Concussion Symptoms Come and Go?
The symptoms of a concussion can come and go. Fluctuating symptoms often happen as the brain works to heal itself. A person can feel completely normal one day and have severe headaches the next. Physical activity, mental strain, and stress can all trigger these symptoms and make them worse.
If your symptoms come and go, it’s important to monitor their frequency and intensity. Keeping a journal of symptoms can help doctors assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
Signs of a Delayed Concussion
Delayed concussions can show up differently for everyone, but common signs include:
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Dizziness
- Balance issues
- Constant or worsening headaches
- Concentration or memory issues
- Sensitivity to light or noise
Delayed vomiting after concussions can also happen. It’s often an indication that there’s increased pressure on the brain or that there’s a more serious hidden issue.
When To Seek Medical Attention
Even if you are dealing with mild symptoms, it’s wise to visit a healthcare provider. A concussion can cause extensive issues without proper care.
Make sure to seek immediate medical attention if you can’t stop vomiting, lose consciousness for any length of time, or have difficulty with confusion or slurred speech. You’ll also want to get prompt care if you experience seizures or changes in vision or if you notice your pupils are different sizes. These could be signs of a severe brain injury.
How To Treat a Concussion
Treatment for any type of concussion usually involves mental and physical rest. Avoid heavy exercise and tasks that require a lot of concentration. It’s also a good idea to opt for less screen time.
Make sure to get plenty of sleep, and try to avoid bright lights and noises, which can worsen headaches. It can also help to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious meals. You can gradually return to your regular activities under your doctor’s guidance. Don’t try to do too much too soon, or you could hinder your progress.
Stay Informed To Protect Your Health
After an accident involving any type of blow to the head, it’s vital to monitor yourself for delayed concussion symptoms. Acting quickly if you do notice symptoms can protect your health and help you have a better chance at recovery.
Additionally, if you sustained a concussion due to an accident caused by another person’s negligent actions in Florida, you may be eligible to pursue a legal claim for damages. Consulting a Mary Esther brain injury attorney can provide you with the answers you need to navigate the future.
Contact Our Brain Injury Law Firm in North Florida
If you’ve been injured in an accident, please contact our experienced brain injury lawyers in Florida at Gross & Schuster Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today. We have five convenient locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview, Milton, and Mary Esther.
Gross & Schuster Injury Lawyers – Pensacola Office
803 N Palafox St
Pensacola, FL 32501
Phone: (850) 434-3333
Gross & Schuster Injury Lawyers – Navarre Office
9933 Navarre Pkwy
Navarre, FL 32566
Phone: (850) 757-2898
Gross & Schuster Injury Lawyers – Crestview Office
1501 S Ferdon Blvd
Crestview, FL 32536
Phone: (850) 407-7726
Gross & Schuster Injury Lawyers – Milton Office
6373 US-90
Milton, FL 32570
Phone: (850) 790-7790
Gross & Schuster Injury Lawyers – Mary Esther Office
151 Mary Esther Blvd Suite 103A
Mary Esther, FL 32569
Phone: (850) 809-0170
