A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury that results from a blow to the head or jarring of the body and is often classified as a minor brain injury because its effects can be severe. Part of what makes them so serious is that they can come with dangerous delayed symptoms. It’s common for people to downplay their concussions because they feel fine. While some symptoms pop up immediately, others may not be present until days or weeks following an injury. It’s essential to understand the symptoms of a delayed concussion and what to do if you suspect you or someone in your care might have one.
Eight Common Delayed Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms can develop over time. Sometimes, that’s because of how your body responds to trauma. At first, the chemicals produced in your body hide all the symptoms, and you appear okay, even if you have a severe blow to the head. So it’s essential to remain vigilant, even if you felt fine at first. Specifically, watch out for the following eight common delayed concussion symptoms:
- Repetitive headaches
- Trouble with memory or concentration
- Mood changes or depression
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to noise and light
- Vision or hearing changes
Monitoring Guidelines Post-Injury
Following a concussion, rest for the mind and body is essential. This does not mean you will be bedridden, but instead, reduce the number of activities that require intense concentration or physical exertion, especially when you are experiencing symptoms. Keep a symptom diary, noting when they happen, how severe they are, and what seems to trigger or worsen them.
When to Seek Emergency Care
After you’ve been hit on the head, it can be hard to determine what you should do next. Should you walk it off or take it more seriously? Some symptoms make it clear that there is more serious brain injury at play, and immediate emergency treatment is necessary. Call 911 or go to the ER if any of the following happen:
- Loss of consciousness
- Vomiting more than once
- Severe confusion
- Slurred words
- Seizures
- Differing sizes of pupils
- Weakness or numbness in arms or legs
A brain injury is one of the most serious injuries we can face as human beings, even if it appears like it might be a small one. Prompt action at the first sign of these red flags can save your life.
Recovery Timeline and Expectations
Recovery time varies from person to person. Some people improve in a week or two, but others take months. Some of the factors that contribute to this include:
- The severity of the original injury
- The age and overall health of the patient
- The number of previous concussions
- How soon the patient received medical treatment and rest
After a concussion is sustained, it’s essential to follow safe return to work or play protocols. You should rest for at least twenty-four to forty-eight hours before returning to physical and cognitive activities. You should also remember that safely returning to work includes a slow return. Don’t jump back into your previous activities as if nothing happened. Listen to your body and rest when you need to.
How Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine Can Assist
Our practice is built on a foundation of non-surgical, evidence-based practice. With board-certified experts in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, our aim is to restore comfort and function through a whole-person approach.
We offer a full range of services, from diagnostic testing to physical therapy and acupuncture, to support each stage of healing. For patients who have post-concussion syndrome, which lasts longer than a few weeks, we also create long-term treatment plans to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury, don’t assume you’re in the clear just because you feel fine today. Concussions are real, and they are critically important to treat immediately.Call Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine today to schedule an evaluation and get your recovery started on the right foot.