Types of Concussions

Concussions, a mild type of traumatic brain injury, are divided into three categories. These categories classify concussions based on their severity, giving patients, their caregivers, and doctors a guideline about how to handle a particular patient's concussion. Concussions can happen any time the head suffers a traumatic blow, causing the brain to suffer an impact with the interior of the skull. This can happen as a result of a fall, an impact with a projectile object, or any other accident where the head is injured. If you suffer a concussion in an accident at your workplace, you could be entitled to monetary compensation for your damages through a workplace injury claim.

Concussions are divided into three categories known as “grades.” Grade 1 concussions are the least severe and grade 3 concussions are the most severe. They can be recognized through the following:

With a grade 1 concussion, the victim does not lose consciousness. Instead, he or she might appear to be confused or feel dizzy. These symptoms generally subside in about 15 minutes after the impact occurs.

Grade 2 concussions have similar symptoms to grade 1 concussions, but can involve more severe issues like the victim developing amnesia. The symptoms of the concussion also last longer than 15 minutes when the injury is a grade 2 concussion.

If a victim loses consciousness, even for a short period of time, he or she most likely has a grade 3 concussion. Other symptoms of a grade 3 concussion include significant cognitive or behavioral changes in the victim.

It is important to know how to recognize the symptoms of a concussion and how to approximate the grade of an individual's concussion to help him or her in the event of an accident. Of course, your knowledge of concussions is no substitute for a doctor's diagnosis. After any event in which an individual suffers a blow to the head, that individual should seek medical attention. He or she should do this even if he or she does not “feel injured” or appear to exhibit any concussion symptoms. Some victims do not exhibit symptoms or exhibit them in a more subtle manner than others, putting them at risk of not realizing they have been injured and thus, not seeking appropriate medical treatment.

When the victim sees a doctor, the doctor will assess his or her concussion by asking simple questions that gauge the victim's memory and concentration. These questions might include “what is your name?” or “where do you live?”

Any type of concussion is a serious injury that requires your utmost attention and care. If you have suffered a concussion because of a workplace accident, work with an experienced San Jose workplace accident attorney who can help you get the monetary compensation you deserve. At Corsiglia, McMahon, & Allard, L.L.P., we can help you get the money you deserve. We proudly serve clients throughout the Bay Area, San Mateo County, Alameda County, San Benito County, Monterey County, and Santa Clara County.

• Concussion/Mild TBI