The immediate, short-term symptoms of a concussion are quite different from the long-term symptoms that are typical of a Post Concussion Syndrome.

The Sports Concussion Assessment Tool, 5th Revision (SCAT5) lists the short-term symptoms as follows:

Mayo Clinic lists the long-term symptoms of a Post Concussion Syndrome to include the following:

    • Headaches (tension type headaches or migraines);
    • Dizziness & Balance dysfunction
    • Fatigue
    • Irritability/Personality change
    • Depression/Anxiety
    • Insomnia/sleep dysfunction
    • Cognitive problems (Lack of concentration, memory, comprehension, and executive dysfunction)
    • Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus)
    • Vision problems (blurred vision, convergence dysfunction, visual pursuit, loss of visual field, etc.)
    • Noise and light sensitivity
    • Loss of taste and smell

Note:  A diagnosis of Post Concussion Syndrome does not require all of these symptoms.  The American Psychiatric Association only requires 3 to establish a diagnosis.