A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or rapid body movement. This motion makes the brain bounce or twist inside the skull, leading to temporary changes in brain function. While not life-threatening, concussions can have significant effects that may persist for weeks or months.
Evolving Understanding of Concussion and Sleep
Historically, medical professionals often advised individuals with a concussion to avoid sleeping, driven by concerns that sleeping could mask deteriorating symptoms or lead to a coma. This advice was based on the limited monitoring capabilities of the past. The understanding of concussions has since advanced significantly, and current medical consensus indicates that sleeping after a concussion is generally safe and often beneficial.
This shift stems from improved diagnostic tools and a better grasp of brain injury mechanisms. Modern medical equipment allows for more precise assessment of head trauma, making continuous waking unnecessary unless specific signs of a more severe injury are present. Rest, including sleep, is now recognized as a fundamental part of recovery from a concussion.
The Role of Sleep in Concussion Recovery
Adequate sleep is important for brain healing following a concussion. During sleep, the brain engages in restorative processes vital for recovery, facilitating metabolic restoration and allowing brain cells to repair and rebalance after the injury.
A key process that intensifies during sleep is the activity of the glymphatic system, the brain’s waste clearance system. This system works to flush out metabolic waste products and toxins that accumulate in the brain, which can increase after an injury. Deep sleep, in particular, enhances this clearance, helping to clean the brain and support its natural healing mechanisms. Disrupted sleep can hinder this process, potentially prolonging symptoms.
Key Considerations for Sleeping Safely After a Concussion
While sleeping is generally safe after a concussion, certain precautions can help ensure effective recovery. For the first 24 hours following the injury, it is advisable to have someone periodically check on the concussed individual. These checks involve simple assessments, such as ensuring the person can be easily awakened and does not exhibit unusual behavior or worsening symptoms.
Creating an optimal sleep environment also supports recovery. This includes ensuring the bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool, which promotes restful sleep.
Limiting exposure to screens from electronic devices before bedtime can also improve sleep quality, as the light and stimulation can interfere with the brain’s natural sleep signals. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up around the same time each day, even on weekends, helps regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Napping is acceptable and can be beneficial, but prolonged daytime sleep that interferes with nighttime rest should be minimized.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Red flag symptoms indicate a more severe injury and require immediate medical evaluation. Seek urgent medical attention if a person with a suspected concussion experiences:
A headache that worsens or does not subside
Repeated vomiting
Severe dizziness or problems with balance
Slurred speech
Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
Confusion, increased agitation, or unusual changes in personality or behavior
Seizures
Any loss of consciousness (even brief)
Unequal pupil sizes
Clear fluid or blood draining from the ears or nose
Difficulty being awakened
These symptoms suggest a serious issue needing prompt professional assessment, regardless of whether the person has been sleeping.