A concussion is often considered a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), but its consequences can be far more significant and long-lasting than many people realize. While some individuals recover from a concussion within days or weeks, for others, the symptoms persist for months or even years. Concussion symptoms that linger for an extended period can disrupt daily life, affecting work, relationships, and overall well-being. Understanding why concussion symptoms can last so long, recognizing the signs, and knowing what steps to take can help individuals manage their recovery and seek appropriate treatment.
If you have suffered a brain injury, call Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp for a free case evaluation with one of our dedicated Virginia Beach brain injury lawyers.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body, leading to the brain moving rapidly within the skull. This movement can cause chemical changes in the brain and stretch or damage brain cells. How do concussions differ from other brain injuries? Unlike more severe brain injuries, such as contusions or skull fractures, concussions typically do not cause structural damage visible on brain imaging scans like CT scans or MRIs. However, the effects can still be serious and long-lasting. Concussions often occur in activities such as sports, car accidents, falls, and physical altercations. They can range from mild to severe, but even a mild concussion can have significant long-term effects if not properly treated. Recovery time varies, and in some cases, concussion symptoms can persist for an extended period, leading to a condition known as post-concussion syndrome.
Why Can Concussion Symptoms Last for So Long?
Why do concussion symptoms linger for such a long time in some individuals? The brain is an incredibly complex organ, and the mechanisms that underlie concussion symptoms are not entirely understood. Several factors contribute to why symptoms can persist for a year or more:
Brain Chemistry Disruptions
When the brain is injured during a concussion, the normal electrical and chemical processes within brain cells are disrupted. This may result in a cascade of changes that can take time to resolve. Chemical imbalances and damage to neurons can cause ongoing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and cognitive dysfunction.
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Some individuals develop post-concussion syndrome (PCS), a condition where concussion symptoms continue for weeks, months, or even longer. PCS symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. The exact cause of PCS is unclear, but it is believed to result from persistent changes in brain function and neurochemical imbalances following the injury.
Second Impact Syndrome
Second impact syndrome occurs when a person sustains a second concussion before fully recovering from the first. This can cause catastrophic brain swelling and significantly worsen the initial symptoms. Though rare, this phenomenon underscores the importance of proper rest and recovery after a concussion to prevent further injury and prolonging symptoms.
Neuroinflammation
Research suggests that concussions can cause inflammation in the brain, leading to an immune response. This inflammation can disrupt brain function, leading to prolonged symptoms. Neuroinflammation may persist even after the immediate trauma has passed, contributing to the long-term effects of concussion.
Individual Factors
The severity of concussion symptoms and the length of recovery time can vary significantly from person to person. Factors such as age, pre-existing medical conditions, previous concussions, and the severity of the initial injury can all influence how long symptoms last. For example, individuals who have experienced multiple concussions are at a higher risk of longer-lasting symptoms.
Psychological Factors
The emotional and psychological impact of a concussion can also contribute to prolonged symptoms. Individuals who experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a concussion may find that their symptoms persist longer. Psychological factors can exacerbate physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, further delaying recovery.
Common Concussion Symptoms That Can Last for Months or Years
While most concussion symptoms subside within a few weeks, some individuals experience lingering effects for months or even years. What symptoms are commonly reported by people who experience prolonged post-concussion effects?
Headaches
One of the most common long-term symptoms of a concussion is persistent headaches. These may vary in intensity and frequency, from mild to severe migraines. Chronic headaches are often a hallmark of post-concussion syndrome, and they can significantly impair a person’s ability to function.
Cognitive Impairment
Many people with lingering concussion symptoms experience difficulty with memory, concentration, and cognitive processing. This can manifest as trouble focusing, forgetfulness, or slower reaction times. Cognitive impairments can interfere with work, academic performance, and daily tasks, leading to frustration and emotional distress.
Dizziness and Balance Problems
Dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues are common symptoms of concussions that can persist long after the injury. These symptoms can make it difficult for individuals to perform simple tasks like walking, driving, or exercising. In severe cases, balance problems can lead to frequent falls and further injuries.
Fatigue
Feeling excessively tired or fatigued is another symptom that can persist for months or years following a concussion. This can be particularly troubling for otherwise healthy individuals. The physical and cognitive demands of work, school, or family responsibilities may exacerbate fatigue.
Sleep Disturbances
Sleep issues, including insomnia or excessive sleepiness, are commonly reported by individuals with post-concussion syndrome. The injury to the brain can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling rested upon waking.
Mood Swings and Irritability
Individuals with lingering concussion symptoms may experience mood changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression. The emotional impact of the injury, along with the frustration of dealing with persistent symptoms, can contribute to these psychological effects.
Sensitivity to Light and Noise
Many people who have suffered a concussion report increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) and noise (phonophobia). Bright lights, loud sounds, or busy environments can exacerbate headaches and make it difficult for the individual to engage in normal activities.
Long-Term Effects of Concussion
In some cases, concussion symptoms can lead to more serious long-term effects. What are the long-term risks associated with a concussion?
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
Repeated concussions over time can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease associated with memory loss, personality changes, and cognitive decline. CTE is most commonly seen in athletes, especially those in contact sports like football or hockey. While a single concussion may not lead to CTE, multiple concussions can increase the risk of developing the condition.
Increased Risk of Further Concussions
After a concussion, the brain is more vulnerable to subsequent injuries. Individuals who return to high-risk activities too soon are at a greater risk of suffering another concussion, which can lead to more severe symptoms and a longer recovery time.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
The emotional toll of dealing with long-term concussion symptoms can lead to depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The difficulty of coping with cognitive impairments, headaches, and physical limitations can make it challenging for individuals to maintain a positive outlook and engage in social activities.
Contact a Virginia Personal Injury Law Firm for Help
A brain injury is often a long-term or permanent injury requiring rehabilitative care. The financial costs of caring for a brain injury victim throughout their life can be overwhelming and carry heavy financial burdens.
If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury due to the negligence of another person, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the pain and losses that were a result of that injury. Our Virginia Beach brain injury attorneys have successfully advocated for many clients who suffered brain injuries in obtaining the financial compensation they deserved for their injuries, including a record-setting mild brain injury verdict for $60 million, which was settled while on appeal.
Contact Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to schedule a free and confidential consultation. Our firm also provides a free traumatic brain injury guide with important information about Virginia’s personal injury law and other legal questions regarding pursuing an injury claim.
For over twenty years, Mr. Sharp's law practice has focused on serious personal injury claims, including traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury claims. He also handles nursing home neglect cases and medical malpractice claims. Mr. Sharp has counseled numerous clients about the complexities concerning litigation of both pediatric and adult brain injury. Mr. Sharp has been awarded the AV Preeminent ranking by Martindale, the highly respected and widely utilized directory of lawyers throughout the world. AV Preeminent status is awarded only to those lawyers who achieve the highest level of success within the legal field and is a testament to the fact that a lawyer's peers and Judges rank him at the highest level of professional excellence. He has also been recognized as a "Best Lawyer" by U.S. News for personal injury, an accolade awarded to only a small fraction of lawyers. Mr. Sharp has also been recognized by Super Lawyers as one of the top personal injury lawyers in Virginia. This recognition is awarded only to those lawyers who have achieved the highest level of success and have been recognized by their peers as demonstrating the highest level of professional excellence.
