A concussion is a common form of mild traumatic brain injury that often raises concerns, particularly regarding sleep. Understanding what a concussion involves and how rest plays a role in recovery is important for managing this condition.
What a Concussion Is
A concussion occurs when the brain moves or twists inside the skull, typically from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body. This rapid movement temporarily disturbs normal brain function rather than causing a structural injury like bleeding or bruising. The effects are often short-term, but symptoms can sometimes last for days, weeks, or even longer.
Individuals may experience a range of immediate or delayed symptoms. Common physical symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, ringing in the ears, and sensitivity to light or sound. Cognitive symptoms can involve confusion, difficulty with concentration and memory, or feeling dazed or “in a fog.” Changes in sleep patterns, irritability, and other personality shifts can also occur.
The Truth About Sleeping After a Concussion
A common misconception from outdated advice suggests that someone with a concussion should be kept awake. However, current medical understanding confirms that it is generally safe and often beneficial to sleep after a concussion. Rest is an important component of brain healing and recovery.
The previous advice to keep individuals awake was primarily to monitor for red flag symptoms that might indicate a more severe brain injury, such as a brain hemorrhage. Experts now recognize that sleep is an important part of recovering from a mild head injury, particularly during the initial three to five days. Disrupting sleep can actually hinder the recovery process, with research indicating that those who wake up more during the night may experience concussion symptoms for a longer duration.
Urgent Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While sleeping after a concussion is safe, certain “red flag” symptoms indicate a more serious brain injury and require immediate medical attention. These signs suggest potential complications like brain swelling or bleeding. If any of these symptoms appear, seek immediate emergency medical help.
Urgent symptoms include:
- A headache that worsens and does not go away.
- Repeated vomiting.
- Slurred speech.
- Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination on one side of the body.
- Seizures.
- Difficulty waking up.
- Significant confusion or unusual behavior.
- One pupil appearing larger than the other.
- Clear fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears.
How to Support Concussion Recovery
Once urgent concerns are ruled out, supporting the brain’s recovery involves a period of gradual physical and cognitive rest. This means limiting activities that strain the brain, such as excessive screen time from phones or computers. Strenuous physical activity and mentally demanding tasks like extensive reading or schoolwork should also be reduced initially.
Gradually returning to activities is important. For instance, light physical activity like walking can be introduced within the first 24 to 48 hours, as tolerated, which may help reduce the risk of prolonged symptoms. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol are also beneficial during recovery. Recovery time varies for each individual, with most people feeling better within a couple of weeks, though some symptoms can persist for a few months. Patience and a phased return to daily routines are important.