The Different Levels of a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Not all traumatic brain injuries are the same. When you’ve suffered any type of bump or blow to the head in an accident, medical professionals initially identify your injury as a concussion (a mild TBI), or as a moderate or severe traumatic brain injury. Furthermore, if the injury is deemed to be a concussion, doctors will further subcategorize your injury as follows:
- If you have symptoms of brain injury that last less than 15 minutes, and you’ve had no loss of consciousness or mental focus, you will commonly be diagnosed with a Grade 1 concussion
- Symptoms that last more than 15 minutes, but still involve no loss of attention or consciousness, are indications of a Grade 2 concussion
- If there is any loss of consciousness or mental acuity, you have sustained a Grade 3 concussion
As a general rule, the other symptoms of a Grade 1, Grade 2 or Grade 3 concussion will be the same:
- Headaches
- Uncharacteristic sensitivity to light, sound and occasionally smell
- Ringing in your ears
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Cognitive challenges, including memory, reasoning, computation and focus
- Interference with sleep patterns, including both extreme fatigue and insomnia
Should Your Response Be Different Based on the Grade of Concussion You’ve Sustained?
No. Anytime you suffer a bump or blow to the head, you should seek immediate medical attention. When your injury results in no loss of consciousness or only momentary loss of consciousness, you will typically be best served by scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician as soon as possible. Your personal doctor will be able to assess your injury and either recommend treatment or refer you to a specialist, such as a physiatrist or neurologist, if necessary.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.