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