The physical nature of some sports makes concussions a very real problem for athletes. Concussions can have long term effects that can follow an athlete into retirement. In some cases, such as those of former superstar quarterbacks in the National Football League, Troy Aikman and Steve Young, concussions can be the cause of a player’s retirement.

What is a Concussion?

Concussions are caused by a traumatic blow to the head that causes swelling of the brain. These types of blows are frequently suffered by hockey, football, and rugby players, as well as boxers. Race car drivers also experience massive amounts of head trauma due to the force of some crashes. These are some of the sports in which concussions are more likely to occur, but all sports provide a degree of risk to athletes who participate.

Brain Structure

The brain is made of very soft tissue that is protected by an outer layer called the dura and is furthered insulated by blood and spinal fluids. Cranial nerves are protected by these insulations and are responsible for sending and carrying electric impulses throughout the body to control both voluntary and involuntary movements. During trauma that results in concussions, these nerves and blood vessels can sustain damage that impairs their normal functioning.

Degrees of Concussion

Not all concussions are the same. As a result, doctors have come up with a classification system in order to better treat the different types of concussions and allow friends and family to know just how much damage was sustained.

Grade One

This type of concussion may leave a person groggy and disoriented, but does not result in loss of consciousness. It is the mildest form of concussion.

Grade Two

This type of concussion is characterized by a greater amount of head trauma. Typically, the individual will not recall the events that led up to the concussion or the events immediately following it. And there is no loss of consciousness.

Grade Three

The worst of the concussions, a grade three results in an individual losing consciousness and retaining no memory of the trauma. The amount of damage produced by most concussions can be reduced by the use of protective gear such as helmets.