Post concussion syndrome symptoms can appear days or even weeks after a head injury, especially following a car accident. While many people recover from a concussion within a short period, others — particularly those involved in motor vehicle collisions in Ontario — may experience symptoms that persist or even worsen over time. If concussion-related issues last longer than 14 days, it may indicate the development of Post Concussion Syndrome (PCS).
Recognizing these symptoms early is essential to getting the right treatment, preventing long-term complications, and ensuring a safe, steady recovery.
Below are the 7 most important signs of Post Concussion Syndrome you should never ignore.
One of the most common symptoms of PCS is ongoing headaches that may feel like pressure, throbbing, or tension around the temples and forehead. These headaches often worsen with activity, screens, or bright light.
When to worry:
Persistent pain is a major indicator that the brain has not fully healed.
Many people describe a feeling of mental “slowness” following a concussion. Tasks like reading, following conversations, or completing work assignments may suddenly feel overwhelming.
Why it happens:
The brain is still recovering from trauma, impacting memory processing, attention, and problem-solving.
This symptom is especially common after rear-end and side-impact car accidents.
Short-term memory issues are another classic PCS symptom. You may notice:
Helpful tip:
Using a daily planner or digital reminders can support memory while the brain heals.
Feeling unsteady, dizzy, or off balance can indicate injury to the vestibular system — the part of the inner ear that controls balance.
This is very common after car accidents, especially when whiplash and concussion happen together.
The good news:
Vestibular physiotherapy is highly effective and often provides fast relief.
Post concussion mood changes can include:
These emotional shifts are a result of the injury, not a character issue.
If symptoms worsen, seeking professional help can dramatically improve recovery.
PCS often affects sleep patterns, leading to:
Poor sleep can worsen all other symptoms — including headaches, mood issues, and concentration difficulty.
Helpful habit:
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and avoid screen time 1 hour before bed.
Bright lights, busy environments, and loud noises may feel overwhelming or painful. This can interfere with work, driving, school, and social activities.
Why this matters:
This symptom indicates the brain is still overstimulated and struggling to process sensory information.
If your concussion symptoms are lasting more than 14 days — or if they are getting worse — it’s important to schedule a medical assessment. Ongoing PCS symptoms can significantly affect daily life, work performance, driving ability, and mental health.
A healthcare provider may recommend:
At Regain Rehab Centre in Brampton, our concussion rehabilitation team includes:
We provide treatment for:
✔ Persistent headaches
✔ Whiplash & neck pain
✔ Balance & dizziness issues
✔ Cognitive fatigue
✔ Sensory sensitivity
✔ Post-traumatic stress
All treatments are covered under Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS) for car accident injuries.
Early assessment leads to faster healing and protects your medical documentation for insurance claims.
👉 Book your appointment with Regain Rehab and start your personalized concussion recovery plan today.
[regainrehab_cta]Learn more about Post-Concussion Syndrome from the Mayo Clinic:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-concussion-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353352
