Most concussions are classified as a type of mild traumatic brain injury that can have short- and long-term effects on brain function. Concussion symptoms are typically immediate. However, delayed concussion symptoms are also possible.
A person who suffered an impact to the head from a fall or auto accident may feel fine for the first 48 hours after the accident. When symptoms begin to arise after 48-72 hours, they are considered “delayed.”
How Serious Is a Concussion?
Not that long ago, a concussion was viewed casually and almost as a badge of honor, especially among athletes. Fortunately, scientific research is helping everyone to understand how serious any injury to the brain can be.
While most concussions are still classified as mild brain injuries, healthcare professionals and injury victims have a better understanding of the potential for long-term damage.
With up to 3.8 million recreation and sports-related concussions each year in the U.S., new studies on how to recognize and treat concussions are protecting the brain health of untold millions.
Depending on the circumstances, a concussion can be serious enough to prevent a person’s return to work, school, or athletics for many months. Health risks become even more severe if the person has suffered more than one concussion in their lifetime.
Immediate and Delayed Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms may begin within minutes after an injury. When symptoms don’t occur until 48 hours after the injury, they are considered “delayed.”
The signs of concussions are the same whether they are immediate or delayed and include:
- Confusion
- Loss of memory
- Headaches
- Problems with balance
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Depression
- Irritability
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Mood swings
- Depression
Most concussion symptoms resolve within 7-10 days. However, up to 15% of concussion patients develop post-concussion syndrome (PCS). PCS is not the same as experiencing delayed symptoms. It is a condition in which symptoms continue for months or even years.
When To See a Doctor About Delayed Concussion Symptoms
Ideally, you should see a doctor after any concussion. If you have been in a workplace accident or taken a fall that resulted in an impact on your head, following up with medical care is the best way to protect your health. Depending on your symptoms, a healthcare professional will provide a neurological assessment and may order diagnostic imaging tests, such as a CT scan.
Immediate treatment can help resolve symptoms sooner and identify any other complications. If you experience delayed concussion symptoms, see your healthcare provider as soon as possible — even if you sought medical care after the accident.
Your doctor will want to know about any change in symptoms so they can make the appropriate adjustments to your treatment plan.
If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, such as in a slip and fall accident caused by a wet floor, a record of your medical care could be helpful in establishing liability as well as the financial impact of your injury.
How Are Delayed Concussion Symptoms Treated?
Hospitalization is typically not needed to care for a concussion. Rest and medications to control symptoms are commonly recommended. In cases where concussion leads to depression or other mental health concerns, psychotherapy may be appropriate.
Don’t Delay Care for a Concussion
Concussions may be common, but that doesn’t mean they’re not serious injuries that require medical care. Remember, you don’t have to lose consciousness to be diagnosed with a concussion. If you experience any of the symptoms of concussion, either immediately or after several days, seek medical help.
Risking another head injury before your brain has had a chance to fully recover could lead to permanent brain damage.
Contact Our Las Vegas Personal Injury Law Firm For Help Today
If you’ve been injured in Las Vegas, NV, and need legal help contact our Las Vegas personal injury attorneys at De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case evaluation today.
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Las Vegas Office
1149 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV. 89104
(702) 222-9999
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Summerlin Office
410 S Rampart Blvd, Ste 480 Las Vegas, NV. 89145
(702) 297-6373
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Henderson Office
9555 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV. 89123
(702) 997-4264
