A concussion is one of the most common and least serious types of traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, all concussions should be taken seriously.
The brain is comprised of soft tissue, encased in the skull and cushioned by spinal fluid. When there is a direct or indirect blow to the head, the impact can jolt your brain or even cause it to violently shake within your skull.
Common causes of concussions include:
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Motor vehicle accidents (e.g., crashes involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, etc.)
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Falls
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Being physically assaulted
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Being struck by an object
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Playing a contact sport
When you suffer a concussion, your brain will not function properly – no matter how mild or severe the injury is. Furthermore, signs may not appear for hours, days, or even weeks after the injury.
Many people wonder how long the symptoms of concussions last. The answer depends on the seriousness of the injury.
Common concussion symptoms include:
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Confusion
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Dizziness
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Headache
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Nausea
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Memory loss
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Focusing difficulties
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Fatigue
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Mental fogginess
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Irritability
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Mood swings
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Sleep issues
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Sensitivity to light or noise
The following are three different grades of concussions:
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Grade 1 concussion – Mild because no loss of consciousness is involved. The symptoms generally last less than 15 minutes.
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Grade 2 concussion – Moderate and also involves no loss of consciousness. Symptoms last longer than 15 minutes and can also include ringing in the ears and brief amnesia.
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Grade 3 concussion – Severe and involves the loss of consciousness for at least a few seconds. Immediate symptoms may include vomiting, seeing stars, and even amnesia for at least 24 hours. Grade 3 concussions can result in long-term or even permanent concussion symptoms.
When it comes to treatment, there are no specific guidelines in relation to the concussion grading scale. Rather, treatment is based on how the patient feels and how quickly they progress during the recovery process.
If you have been injured in an accident caused by negligence in Texas, call the Dallas injury lawyers at Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers at (214) 739-0100 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We also have an office in Chicago, IL!