Jared J Pehrson | February 10, 2025

Delayed Concussion Symptoms

Concussions are common injuries, but that doesn’t mean they’re not serious. Most people recover from a single concussion if they follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations. However, rushing back to work or performing physical activities could lead to ongoing problems. 

Not all concussion symptoms appear immediately after an injury. When symptoms take more than 48 hours to manifest, they are usually referred to as “delayed concussion” symptoms. 

What Is a Concussion?

If your head impacts a solid object, it can cause your brain to move around inside your skull. This is what happens during a concussion. Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that is often dismissed as a mild bump on the head. While it’s true that many concussions aren’t life-threatening, the side effects can be serious and may last for weeks, months, or even years. 

A single concussion is unlikely to cause permanent brain damage. However, multiple concussions over several years can cause permanent changes in how the brain functions. This may lead to severe complications and can increase the risk of developing other health conditions. 

Since nearly 7% of children under the age of 17 experience this type of injury, concerns about multiple concussions are well-founded.

Common Causes of Concussions

Concussions are caused by a strong jolt to the body or head. Many types of activities can lead to a concussion, including:

  • Bike accidents
  • Slip and fall accidents
  • Physical violence, such as an assault
  • Sports injuries

Auto accidents can also cause concussions, especially if the head hits a hard surface inside the car. 

Potential Concussion Symptoms

Recovering from a concussion takes time. The symptoms a person experiences after a head injury are the body’s way of telling them to slow down and rest. 

Symptoms can be physical, cognitive, and emotional. Many people begin feeling symptoms almost immediately after the injury, but in some cases, symptoms are delayed. Delayed concussion symptoms may take several days to manifest. 

Whether immediate or delayed, symptoms are the same and may include:

  • Headaches
  • Blurry vision
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Sensitivity to sound
  • Neck pain
  • Dizziness and balance problems
  • Feeling lightheaded
  • Temporary loss of consciousness
  • Confusion
  • Irritability or mood swings
  • Changes in sleep habits
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

Recovery typically takes several weeks, but it can be different for everyone. If you experience any additional injuries or develop complications while healing from a concussion, consult your doctor immediately. 

Recovering From a Concussion

Rest is perhaps the most important factor in recovery. If you suspect you or someone else has received a concussion, don’t return to normal activity until you’ve been cleared by a medical professional. If you develop symptoms like nausea, depression, or sleeplessness, your physician may prescribe medications to manage those issues. 

Once you begin to feel better, you can slowly return to normal activities. If symptoms return, slow down. Let your body guide you, and don’t rush the healing process. Not taking the time to fully heal could lead to complications like post-concussion syndrome.

Have You Suffered a Concussion in Phoenix?

It is possible to have a concussion and not realize it. Not everyone loses consciousness, and symptoms can be mild. In some cases, concussion victims don’t realize their headache is a symptom of a health problem. 

If you are in any kind of impact accident, such as a truck accident, make sure to seek medical care. A healthcare professional can perform an evaluation and provide the information you need to recover safely and completely. While many concussion symptoms resolve with rest, all traumatic brain injuries should be taken seriously. 

In Arizona, a brain injury lawyer may also be able to help if you suffered your concussion in an accident caused by someone else.

If you were injured in an accident in Phoenix, AZ, and need legal help, contact our Phoenix car accident attorneys at Impact Legal Car Accident Attorneys to schedule a free case review today.

We serve Maricopa County and Arizona’s surrounding areas.

Impact Legal Car Accident Attorneys
16202 N Cave Creek Rd Suite D, Phoenix, AZ 85032
(602) 345 -1818