Not long ago, only “serious” concussions were considered something to be concerned about. Fortunately, continued research on the effect of concussions and repetitive concussions has made the public and the medical community more aware of the dangers related to suffering an impact on the head.
All concussions are classified as mild traumatic brain injuries. Even mild concussions have the potential to affect brain function. It is not necessary to lose consciousness in order for a concussion to harm your health.
What Are Delayed Concussion Symptoms?
The symptoms of a concussion can be subtle, or they may not occur immediately after an injury or accident. If you or someone you know is involved in a car accident or sports injury, being evaluated by a medical professional can protect your health.
Even if you feel your injuries are minor, symptoms from conditions like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussion could occur days or even weeks after the initial injury. Delayed concussion symptoms are the same as immediate symptoms. In adults, the symptoms include:
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Headache
- Confusion
- Amnesia, especially surrounding the event
- Dizziness
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Dazed appearance
- Slurred speech
- Forgetfulness
- Trouble concentrating
- Feeling overly emotional, crying
- Depression
- Insomnia and fatigue
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Changes in smell and taste
- Irritability
The symptoms of a delayed concussion present differently in children, especially in children who are too young to verbalize their discomfort. Watch for the following warning signs in infants and toddlers:
- Loss of balance
- Excessive crying
- Listlessness
- Irritability
- Dazed appearance
- Vomiting
- Loss of interest in favorite activities or toys
- Loss of appetite
Always see a healthcare professional who is trained in diagnosing and treating pediatric concussions if your child receives a head injury.
Delayed Concussion Symptoms That Require Emergency Care
It’s easy to understand how people can overlook the seriousness of delayed concussion symptoms, especially if they received medical care after an auto accident or a serious fall. Anytime symptoms worsen after an accident, it could indicate a medical emergency.
Seek emergency care for any child or adult who displays these symptoms after a headache, even if they occur days after the incident:
- Weakness in the limbs
- Ringing in the ears that won’t stop
- Blood or other fluid coming from the ears or nose
- Headache that worsens
- Serious confusion, such as not recognizing familiar people or places
- Falling, stumbling, loss of coordination
- Dizziness that worsens or won’t go away
- Changes in mental function
- Large bumps or bruises on the head, especially behind the ears or around the eyes
Remember that a concussion is a traumatic brain injury. Delaying care could result in lasting brain damage or death.
Delayed Concussion Treatment
The most common treatment for a concussion is rest. Take a break from strenuous physical exercise. If your concussion was the result of a sports injury, do not return to the sport until you’ve been cleared by a doctor.
Avoid activities that require long periods of concentration, such as reading, playing video games, or working. Your physician may also recommend avoiding driving, drinking alcohol, or taking certain medications.
Everyone responds differently, but concussions typically heal within a few weeks. Recovery can take longer if you incurred additional injuries at the time of the incident or if you delayed treatment.
Should You Speak With A Personal Injury Attorney?
Delayed concussion symptoms are the same as symptoms that arise quickly. However, delayed symptoms are more likely to be ignored or considered a “normal” part of the healing process. This is especially true if other injuries happened at the same time.
If your injury was caused by another person’s negligence, speak with a personal injury attorney. Healing from a concussion may involve lost wages and high medical bills. An attorney will evaluate your case and help you receive a fair settlement.
Contact The Personal Injury Law Firm of Dickerson Oxton in Kansas City, MO Today
For more information, contact the Kansas City, MO personal injury law firm of Dickerson Oxton to schedule a free initial consultation.
We serve in Jackson County and its surrounding areas across Missouri:
Dickerson Oxton – Kansas City Office
1100 Main St #2550, Kansas City, MO 64105
(816) 268 1960
Hours: Monday to Friday,
from 9 am – 5 pm