Recognizing the warning signs of delayed brain swelling is crucial because symptoms may not appear immediately after a head injury but can develop hours, days, or even weeks later. Delayed brain swelling, also known as cerebral edema, occurs when the brain tissue swells due to injury, increasing pressure inside the skull and potentially causing serious complications.
Early signs to watch for include persistent headaches that worsen over time and do not respond to usual pain relief. These headaches may feel different from normal tension headaches and can be accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Visual disturbances such as blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light and sound, and difficulty focusing or thinking clearly are also common early symptoms. You might notice dizziness, balance problems, or a feeling of being unsteady on your feet. Fatigue that is extreme or disproportionate to your activity level, as well as sleep disturbances like insomnia or excessive sleepiness, can also indicate brain swelling.
Other warning signs include confusion, memory problems, irritability, or unusual frustration. Some people describe feeling “off” without being able to explain why. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and slurred speech may also occur. In more severe cases, symptoms can progress to weakness or numbness in limbs, seizures, or difficulty waking up.
Because delayed brain swelling can worsen over time, it is important to seek medical attention promptly if any of these symptoms appear after a head injury, even if the injury initially seemed minor. Early diagnosis and treatment, which may include medications to reduce swelling, can prevent further brain damage.
Sources
https://www.mayfieldinjury.com/blog/what-are-the-symptoms-of-a-delayed-concussion/
https://int.livhospital.com/10-key-symptoms-of-brain-tumor-face-swelling-and-brain-edema/
https://www.rmlawcall.com/early-warning-signs-of-traumatic-brain-injury-after-a-mississippi-car-accident
https://www.1800law1010.com/vehicle-injuries/low-speed-car-accidents-connective-tissue-injuries/delayed-injury-symptoms/
https://www.thechampionfirm.com/blog/head-injury-severity-after-car-accident/
https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/brain-and-nerves/brain-symptoms
