A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a bump or jolt to the head. This sudden movement can cause chemical changes and even damage to the brain.
But no two concussions are exactly alike, and symptoms can vary widely from person to person.
One way doctors used to describe levels of concussions was with a grading system. This system categorized concussions as Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3, based on symptoms and whether the person lost consciousness.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you or someone you know has a concussion, regardless of how “mild” it seems.
What causes concussions?
Concussions usually occur after some kind of blow to the head. Common causes include:
- Contact sports
- Falls (especially in kids and older adults)
- Car accidents
- Other kinds of head trauma
You’re more likely to sustain a concussion if you:
- Don’t use the right safety equipment
- Have had concussions in the past
If you think you may have a concussion, seek medical attention immediately. Early detection can help you get the treatment you need and prevent further injuries or complications.
Grade 1 Concussions: Mild Symptoms and Management
Grade 1 concussions are considered mild and tend to cause temporary symptoms. The hallmark of a grade 1 concussion is that there’s typically no loss of consciousness.
If you have a grade 1 concussion, you may experience a headache, dizziness, or nausea, but these symptoms usually resolve fairly quickly — often in less than 15 minutes.
Rest is the most important thing you can do in the early stages of concussion recovery. As your symptoms begin to subside, you can gradually begin to resume your normal activities.
Grade 2 Concussions: Moderate Symptoms and Monitoring
Grade 2 concussions are considered moderate. The symptoms are more pronounced, and you may have a fleeting loss of consciousness.
Common Symptoms
With a grade 2 concussion, you may experience:
- More intense headaches and dizziness
- Memory problems that last longer than a few minutes
- Confusion and difficulty concentrating
- Sensitivity to light and noise
Medical Evaluation and Monitoring
It’s important to get medical attention if you think you have a grade 2 concussion. A healthcare provider can monitor you for any worsening symptoms. They may also order imaging tests to rule out other injuries.
Grade 3 Concussions: Severe Symptoms and Immediate Action
Grade 3 concussions are considered the most severe form of traumatic brain injury. People with this grade of concussion lose consciousness for longer than five minutes.
Symptoms of a grade 3 concussion include:
- Significant confusion and disorientation
- Severe headache and nausea
- Amnesia and memory loss
- Potential for long-term complications
It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you think you or someone you know has a grade 3 concussion. Call 911 or head to the nearest emergency room or medical facility for a thorough evaluation to assess the extent of the injury.
Beyond the Grades: Understanding the Spectrum of Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms are different for everyone, and they can affect a wide range of functions.
Symptoms typically fall into these categories:
- Vestibular (balance and spatial orientation)
- Ocular (vision)
- Cognitive (thinking, memory, and concentration)
- Cervical (neck pain and stiffness)
- Mood-related (irritability, anxiety, and depression)
Because each patient experiences a concussion differently, treatment approaches should be tailored to their specific symptoms and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 5 stages of concussion?
The “5 stages of concussion” typically refer to the return-to-play protocol, not the severity of the initial injury. These stages involve gradually increasing activity levels, starting with rest and light aerobic exercise, then sport-specific exercises, non-contact training drills, full contact practice, and finally, return to full gameplay. Progression through these stages should be guided by a healthcare professional.
Is a level 3 concussion bad?
If you’re referring to the older grading system, a Grade 3 concussion (loss of consciousness) was considered the most severe. However, modern concussion management focuses less on grading and more on individual symptoms and recovery. Any concussion should be taken seriously and evaluated by a medical professional. The severity is determined by the symptoms, not a numerical grade.
What are the 4 levels of a concussion?
There aren’t standardized “4 levels” of concussion. Some older systems used mild, moderate, and severe. However, current guidelines emphasize that concussions are complex injuries with a wide range of symptoms and recovery times, and a simple numerical or level-based system doesn’t accurately reflect the injury.
How serious is a level 2 concussion?
Using the older system, a Grade 2 concussion (no loss of consciousness but symptoms lasting longer than 15 minutes) was considered moderate. However, it’s crucial to focus on the specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life rather than relying solely on a grade. A “level 2” concussion can still be serious and requires proper medical evaluation and management.
The Bottom Line
If you think you or someone you know may have a concussion, seek medical attention right away. Even if the symptoms seem mild, it’s important to get checked out by a healthcare professional.
The best way to recover from a concussion is to rest and then gradually return to your usual activities. There are also specialized concussion clinics and treatment options available to help you get back on your feet.
With careful monitoring and a personalized treatment plan, you can optimize your recovery and get back to feeling like yourself again.