Concussion symptoms may take 48-72 hours to develop. While we are always happy to evaluate your child at any time after a head injury, please keep in mind we are not able to definitely diagnose a concussion, nor rule one out, until 48-72 hours after the head injury occurs.

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that alters the way your brain works. Effects can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance and coordination.

Although concussions usually are caused by a blow to the head, they can also occur when the head and upper body are violently shaken. These injuries can cause a loss of consciousness, but most concussions do not.

The signs and symptoms of a concussion can be subtle and may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms can last for days, weeks or even longer.

Signs and symptoms of a concussion may include:

  • Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
  • Temporary loss of consciousness
  • Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
  • Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
  • Dizziness or “seeing stars”
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Slurred speech
  • Delayed response to questions
  • Appearing dazed
  • Fatigue

Some symptoms of concussions may be immediate or delayed in onset by hours or days after injury, such as:

  • Concentration and memory complaints
  • Irritability and other personality changes
  • Sensitivity to light and noise
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Psychological adjustment problems and depression
  • Disorders of taste and smell

Sites:
http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/youth.html

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/basics/definition/con-20019272

http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/51/11/838

https://www.impacttest.com