Are There Different Levels of Concussions?
An impact to your head can cause your brain to be shaken. A personal injury like a concussion can happen due to a car accident, a fall, or a blow to the head. No brain injury is minor, so it is always a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional.
When it comes to concussions, there is more than one level. They are not all the same, so it is important to understand what level of concussion you have and how to best recover from it. The more severe your concussion, the worse your symptoms will be.
There are three grades of concussions you should know about. Here is a look at them in more detail.
Grade 1 Concussion
Grade 1 concussions are mild, with no loss of consciousness. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, light/noise sensitivity, mild confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Sleep disturbances are also common; victims may have trouble falling asleep or excessive drowsiness.
Recovery typically occurs within a few days to a week. Rest, avoiding strenuous activity, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule are key to healing.
Grade 2 Concussion
Grade 2 concussions are moderate. They may involve a brief loss of consciousness. Symptoms include all grade 1 symptoms plus momentary amnesia, irritability, slurred speech, moderate confusion, and prolonged fatigue. Symptoms are more intense and persist longer than in grade 1 concussions.
Recovery requires strict mental and physical rest to allow the brain to heal, often taking several weeks. Returning too quickly to work, school, or sports can worsen symptoms or prolong recovery.
Grade 3 Concussion
Grade 3 concussions are the most severe. They involve loss of consciousness, with severity depending on duration. Additional symptoms include severe headache, amnesia for more than 24 hours, vision problems, repeated vomiting, and loss of coordination. This degree of concussion can significantly affect normal brain and body functions.
This type of concussion requires immediate medical attention. Treatment may involve monitoring for complications, medications for symptom relief, and sometimes hospitalization to prevent further brain injury. Recovery may take weeks to months and often requires careful follow-up.
What Can Affect the Severity of a Concussion?
- Force and direction of impact: Harder impacts or blows to certain areas of the head, such as the front or side, often cause more severe concussions.
- Previous concussions: Those with a history of concussions are at higher risk for more severe symptoms, as repeated injuries can compound brain damage.
- Age: Children and older adults may experience more severe effects because their brains are more vulnerable to trauma or slower to recover.
- Alcohol or drug use: Being under the influence during an injury can worsen symptoms and complicate diagnosis.
- Immediate response: Prompt medical evaluation and proper rest can prevent symptoms from worsening.
- Fatigue and stress levels: Physical exhaustion or high stress can make the brain more susceptible to severe symptoms.
Contact Us Today
Concussions can cause a lot of emotional and mental damage. In severe cases, they can lead to physical disabilities as well.
The Charleston personal injury lawyers from Wyndham Law Firm, LLC, can help you manage the effects of concussions and other personal injuries. We understand all the damages involved. Contact us via (843) 279-5312 or online here for a consultation.