Delayed Concussion Symptoms
A concussion is a surprisingly common head injury in both Denver and nationwide, affecting millions of Americans yearly. Despite the frequency with which they occur, concussions can differ significantly from person to person in terms of their effects and symptoms. The manifestation of these symptoms can vary as well.
Following a car accident, sports injury, or other blow to the head, you might believe you avoided serious injury if you do not notice any immediate symptoms. However, it’s important to ensure you are not experiencing delayed concussion symptoms in the days following your head injury.
Watch For These Five Signs of a Concussion
Because a concussion involves damage to the brain, you can typically expect symptoms to be present if you did, in fact, suffer one of these brain injuries.
These symptoms might manifest immediately after the injury, or take several hours or days before you notice them. If you find yourself experiencing any of the following symptoms in Colorado, it is best to visit your local emergency room or doctor’s office for evaluation:
1. Persistent Headaches
A bump on the head will cause some pain. But persistent headaches that do not go away or that go away and come back can be a sign of underlying brain damage. You may also notice that the headaches associated with a concussion get progressively worse or do not respond well to over-the-counter medications.
2. Changes in Your Sleeping Patterns
A concussion can disrupt your normal sleeping habits as well. You might notice that you are having trouble falling asleep at night or experiencing difficulty staying asleep. Conversely, sleeping more than you normally do or feeling constantly tired can also indicate a concussion. Therefore, any change in your normal sleeping patterns that lasts beyond a day or two should be investigated.
3. Abnormal Moods or Mood Changes
You may not notice any mood changes, but pay attention if friends and family comment that you seem “different” or “off.” The brain damage associated with a concussion can sometimes manifest in mood and behavioral changes.
For example, your friends and family may notice that you are more irritable than usual or that your mood suddenly shifts from being happy to sad or angry. The cause of these changes should be examined as soon as possible, as they may be caused by a concussion.
4. Dizziness, Nausea, and Vomiting
A bump on the head can leave you “seeing stars” and feeling unsteady on your feet. This feeling can show up immediately after your head injury, or it may come around several hours later. If this feeling does not go away, or if it is accompanied by nausea or vomiting, there is a good chance that a concussion is to blame.
5. Forgetfulness
Additionally, a concussion might result in you experiencing bouts of forgetfulness. You might not be able to remember the accident that caused your brain injury. You could also forget simple things that you otherwise easily remember, such as your address, important dates, or directions to your workplace. Any unusual or abnormal forgetfulness following a blow to the head deserves professional attention.
The Importance of Prompt Medical Treatment For a Concussion
It is crucial that you remain alert for delayed signs of a concussion and seek treatment promptly for any such symptoms. Damage to the brain is serious, and it can worsen or become permanent if you do not receive medical care as soon as possible.
By remaining alert to your body and behavior after you sustain a head injury, you will be better prepared to notice any delayed symptoms of a concussion and seek appropriate treatment. If you do experience concussion symptoms, it’s wise to also speak to a Denver brain injury lawyer to explore your options for potential compensation.
Contact our Denver Brain Injury Law Firm Today For Help
For more information please contact Zaner Harden Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation with a Denver brain injury lawyer.
Zaner Harden Personal Injury Lawyers
1610 Wynkoop Street, Suite 120. Denver, CO 80202
(720) 613 9706
