A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury resulting from a jolt or blow to the head or body, causing the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This sudden movement can temporarily alter normal brain function. While concussions are generally not life-threatening, their effects can be significant and impact various aspects of health, including sleep. It is common for individuals to experience increased sleep after a concussion.
Understanding Sleep Changes After Concussion
Experiencing increased sleepiness is a common symptom in the immediate aftermath of a concussion, affecting approximately 30% to 80% of individuals. This can manifest as needing more hours of sleep each night, feeling tired throughout the day, or taking frequent naps. This heightened need for rest, often termed hypersomnia, is a natural response as the brain works to heal itself.
Why Concussions Affect Sleep
An injured brain requires additional energy to repair damaged cells and restore normal function. This increased demand for resources often leads to a natural inclination for more sleep, similar to how the body recovers from other physical injuries. Concussions can also disrupt the delicate balance of brain chemistry and neural pathways that regulate sleep-wake cycles. This disruption can impact the brain’s ability to produce or utilize key neurochemicals for sleep regulation, such as hypocretin and melatonin, contributing to altered sleep patterns and persistent fatigue. The trauma can also affect areas like the hypothalamus and brainstem, central to managing these cycles.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Sleep Issues
While increased sleep can be a normal part of concussion recovery, certain sleep-related symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. If an individual experiences extreme difficulty waking up, is unable to be roused, or shows new severe insomnia, medical evaluation is necessary. Other concerning signs include worsening sleep patterns over time, or any unusual changes in consciousness or behavior directly linked to sleep. It is important to consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist for weeks or months, particularly if sleepiness interferes with daily function or if there are severe headaches, seizures, or repeated vomiting.
Promoting Restful Sleep During Concussion Recovery
To support healthy sleep habits during concussion recovery, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule helps, going to bed and waking up at the same time daily, even on weekends. Creating an optimal sleep environment also helps, ensuring the bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Limiting screen time from electronic devices, such as phones and computers, for at least an hour before bedtime can help, as the light emitted can interfere with the brain’s natural sleep signals. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, especially in the hours leading up to sleep, can prevent disruptions to nighttime rest. Short naps, around 20-30 minutes, may be appropriate in the initial weeks if they do not hinder nighttime sleep.