What serious condition can occur if symptoms of a concussion do not resolve?

The serious condition that can develop if concussion symptoms do not resolve is post-concussion syndrome. This condition is characterized by a range of persistent symptoms following a concussion, including headaches, dizziness, cognitive difficulties, and emotional disturbances. It can last for weeks, months, or even longer after the initial injury.

In particular, if a person sustains a concussion and resumes activities too soon—such as playing contact sports—they may be at risk for second impact syndrome. This is a rare but potentially fatal condition that occurs when an individual suffers a second concussion before the symptoms of the first one have fully resolved. The symptoms of second impact syndrome can escalate quickly, leading to brain swelling and increased intracranial pressure, which can be life-threatening.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, while a serious condition associated with repeated head injuries over time, does not typically arise from a single concussion that does not resolve. Intracranial hemorrhage is an acute condition that can occur immediately after a traumatic brain injury, but it is not specifically tied to the prolonged symptoms of a concussion.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial in managing head injuries appropriately and recognizing when to seek further medical evaluation.