Robert Hammers | February 4, 2026 | Personal Injury
A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head or body. The brain moves rapidly inside the skull, leading to bruising or chemical changes that disrupt normal functioning. Concussions can occur in car crashes, slips and falls, sports injuries, workplace accidents, or any accident involving sudden impact.
What makes concussions especially dangerous is that their symptoms can be subtle at first. Many victims feel “fine” immediately after an accident, only to experience worsening effects later. Understanding delayed concussion symptoms is critical for protecting both physical health and long-term well-being.
Persistent or Worsening Headaches
One of the most common delayed concussion symptoms is a headache that does not go away or becomes stronger over time. At first, the pain may feel mild, similar to tension or stress. However, as inflammation develops in the brain, headaches can worsen and become disruptive. Any ongoing headache after an accident should be taken seriously, especially if it intensifies over several days.
Dizziness and Balance Problems
Many accident victims experience dizziness or unsteadiness days after the injury. This can include feelings of lightheadedness, vertigo, or trouble maintaining balance when walking. Because concussions affect the brain’s ability to coordinate movement, balance problems may emerge gradually, sometimes catching individuals off guard long after the accident occurred.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is another delayed symptom that may not appear immediately. Some individuals begin feeling sick to their stomach hours or even days later. In severe cases, vomiting can occur, which may indicate increased pressure or more serious complications. Persistent nausea should always prompt medical evaluation.
Difficulty Concentrating or Remembering
Cognitive changes are often overlooked but can be some of the most disruptive concussion symptoms. People may struggle with memory, concentration, or mental processing after a head injury. Tasks that once seemed easy—such as reading, working, or holding conversations—may suddenly feel exhausting. These symptoms may not become noticeable until victims attempt to return to their normal routines.
Extreme Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances
Delayed concussions frequently cause unusual tiredness. Victims may feel drained even after plenty of rest, or they may sleep much more than usual. Others experience insomnia, waking frequently during the night.
Because the brain is healing, it requires extra energy, which often leads to fatigue. Sleep pattern changes should not be ignored after an accident.
Irritability, Anxiety, or Mood Swings
Emotional changes can also signal a delayed concussion. Victims may feel unusually irritable, anxious, depressed, or prone to sudden mood shifts. These symptoms occur because concussions disrupt the brain’s ability to regulate emotions. Family members may notice personality changes before the injured person does.
Sensitivity to Light and Noise
Some people develop heightened sensitivity to bright lights or loud environments days after the injury. Everyday activities—such as watching television, using a phone, or being in crowded places—can become uncomfortable or overwhelming. This symptom is often linked to the brain’s struggle to process sensory information normally.
Blurred Vision or Ringing in the Ears
Vision and hearing disturbances can also appear later. Blurred or double vision may develop as the brain attempts to recover, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) is another possible symptom. These changes should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider, as they can affect safety and daily functioning.
Confusion or Increasing Disorientation
Although many concussions are considered “mild,” delayed confusion can be serious. Victims may feel mentally foggy, have difficulty making decisions, or become disoriented in familiar surroundings. Increasing confusion can sometimes be a warning sign of a more severe brain injury requiring immediate medical care.
Long-Lasting Symptoms and Post-Concussion Syndrome
In some cases, delayed concussion symptoms do not resolve quickly. Victims may develop post-concussion syndrome, where headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and cognitive issues continue for months or longer. This condition can interfere with work, school, and relationships, creating emotional and financial strain.
Contact the Atlanta Personal Injury Attorneys at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Delayed concussion symptoms can be just as serious as immediate ones, and accident victims should never dismiss warning signs that appear days or weeks after an injury. Recognizing symptoms early, seeking medical treatment, and documenting the effects are essential steps in protecting both health and future stability.
If you or a loved one has suffered concussion-related injuries after an accident, contact Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a personal injury attorney.
We proudly serve clients throughout Fulton County and the greater Atlanta metro area in Georgia, with offices in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville, Smyrna, Roswell, and Mableton.
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Mableton
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Smyrna
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Roswell
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About Robert M. Hammers Jr.
Robert M. Hammers, Jr. is the managing partner at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta. Committed to justice, he represents individuals harmed by negligence, focusing on personal injury litigation.
With over 50 jury trials and $100 million in verdicts and settlements, Rob is known for his strategic thinking and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients. He serves on the Executive Committee for the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice Board of Governors, and the Plaintiff Leadership Committee in complex multi-district and toxic tort litigations, where he advocates for injured individuals and shapes legal strategies.
Robert is also recognized on Justia for his excellence in personal injury law, further highlighting his reputation and commitment to client advocacy.
