The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities states that 1 million children a year suffer concussions, more than 30,000 of which will incur serious long term disability as a result of a concussion. Because a concussion, if left untreated, may lead to a severe traumatic brain injury, parents should seek immediate medical treatment for their children if they suspect any type of a head injury, including a concussion. If you suspect your child’s brain damage was caused by the negligence or malpractice of another, contact the Chicago brain injury lawyers of Passen & Powell at (312) 527-4500 for a free consultation.
The clinical definition of a concussion is “a clinical syndrome characterized by immediate and transient alteration in brain function, including alteration of mental status and level of consciousness, resulting from mechanical force or trauma.” A concussion can cause the brain to shake around in your head, potentially leading to a severe traumatic brain injury. This is because the brain is made up of soft tissue that is surround by spinal fluid, which helps cushion the brain against the hard protective shell of the skull.
Though common, concussions can lead to permanent disability if improperly treated or misdiagnosed. Concussions can be especially serious in young children as their brains are still developing. If you or a loved one has suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, leading to permanent disability, contact an experienced brain injury lawyer today.
Symptoms of a concussion range from mild, such as that dazed, foggy feeling, to more serious, such as difficulty remembering things, concentrating and even personality or behavioral changes. Other symptoms include nausea, headache, dizziness and sensitivity to light and sound.
Concussions have three grade levels:
• Mild
• Moderate
• Severe
According to the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), a person with a Grade 1 or mild concussion will be a little confused, suffer no loss of consciousness and symptoms clear within 15 minutes. A Grade 2 or moderate concussion also induces confusion, but symptoms persist for longer than 15 minutes.
A Grade 3, or severe concussion, causes a loss of consciousness. The AAN makes no distinction between seconds and minutes; any loss of consciousness constitutes a Grade 3 concussion. Grade 3 concussions require immediate medical attention. All concussions should be treated seriously. A non-invasive CT scan or “CAT scan” can detect whether the concussion is serious or not.
Parents should pay attention to potential concussions sustained by their children, as should teachers, babysitters and other adults responsible for children. Trauma-induced concussions or brain injuries may be caused by falls down stairs at school, high contact sports activities, or motor vehicle accidents and other accidents. To speak with a top Chicago brain injury attorney, call Passen & Powell at (312) 527-4500 for a free consultation.
