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Concussions are relatively common injuries that result from an auto collision. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control provides that 20 percent of all brain injuries are caused from auto accidents. If you or a family member are involved in even a minor New Jersey crash, it is important to understand both the symptoms and the treatments for concussions.
Concussion Symptoms
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts brain function. A concussion can cause a range of physical and psychological effects such as:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Mood changes
- Loss of sense of smell or taste
- Vision problems
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Getting lost or easily confused
- Sowed thinking, speaking or reading
- Ringing in the ears
- Memory loss
- Lack of concentration
- Behavior and personality changes.
If you notice any one of these symptoms, it is important to immediately contact a medical professional.
Concussion Grades
Medical professionals rate or grade concussions based on the severity of the individual’s symptoms, regardless of the type or nature of the accident that caused the concussion.
Grade One Concussion
- Considered mild
- Symptoms last no more than fifteen minutes;
- The individual did not lose consciousness.
Grade Two Concussion
- Considered moderate
- Symptoms can last longer than 15 minutes and may last as long as a week or two
- The individual may not have lost consciousness.
Grade Three Concussion
- Severe
- Symptoms last for long periods of time
- Individual usually loses consciousness.
New Jersey Head Trauma Treatment
The severity or grading of a New Jersey concussion is what guides the medical team to decide what type or level of treatment is appropriate. For example, a patient with a grade one or two concussion may be asked to wait until all of their symptoms have passed before resuming their normal activities at work or school. An individual may also be instructed to avoid vigorous activity such as sports until after all symptoms have ended. With a grade three concussion, it is usually necessary to have a CT scan or MRI so that a neurologist can confirm whether or not internal bleeding or other serious injuries to the brain exist. It is common for patients with grade three concussions to require hospitalization until their symptoms lessen or terminate.
Contact Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A. Today
If you or a loved one are involved in an auto accident, even if it appears minor, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible in order to rule out the possibility of a concussion or other serious injury. Contact an experienced New Jersey accident lawyer at Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A. today so that he or she can review your case and determine who is liable for your injuries and damages under New Jersey law.
