Concussion

Diagnosis:

Clinical

Classification:

Grade 1: Transient confusion; no loss of consciousness; concussion symptoms clear in less than 15 minutes.
Grade 2: Transient confusion; No loss of consciousness; concussion symptoms or mental status abnormalities last longer than 15 minutes.
Grade 3: Any loss of consciousness, either brief (seconds) or prolonged (minutes).

Treatment:

Return to play (quick guidelines, see updated guidelines for up to date evidence based recommendations):

  • Most important:
    • No return to play if athelete is still experiencing symptoms
    • Must be assessed by a Neurologist or physician with proper training (e.g. sports medicine) before return to play
  • Grade 1: same day
  • Multiple grade 1: 1 week
  • Grade 2 concussion: 1 week
  • Multiple Grade 2 concussions: 2 weeks
  • Grade 3:
    • Grade 3- brief loss of consciousness (seconds): 1 week
    • Grade 3- prolonged loss consciousness (minutes): 2 weeks
    • Multiple Grade 3 concussions: 1 month or longer, based on clinical decision of evaluating physician

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