Understanding the Link Between Concussion and Sleep Issues
Concussions, a form of mild traumatic brain injury, can significantly disrupt sleep patterns. Many individuals experience sleep disturbances after suffering a concussion, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling overly tired. Understanding these issues and knowing how to address them is crucial for recovery. At Concussion Care, we specialise in helping individuals recover from brain injuries by offering personalised, supportive care, including guidance on improving sleep.

What is a Concussion and How Does It Affect Sleep?

A concussion occurs when the brain is jolted or impacted, causing a temporary disturbance in brain function. Sleep issues are common after a concussion, and understanding why this happens can help in finding solutions.

Common Sleep Issues After a Concussion

After experiencing a concussion, individuals may encounter a variety of sleep disturbances, including:

• Sleeping more or less than usual: It is not uncommon to feel the need for more sleep or, conversely, to struggle with sleep deprivation.

• Difficulty falling or staying asleep: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns are frequent complaints.

• Fatigue: Feeling exhausted even after what seems like enough sleep is a common post-concussion symptom.

• Increased irritability and sensitivity to noise: These symptoms can be exacerbated by poor sleep.

How Sleep Problems Worsen Concussion Symptoms

Not getting enough rest can significantly worsen other concussion symptoms. Difficulties with sleep may exacerbate issues like poor concentration, memory problems, irritability, and sensitivity to noise. For those recovering from a brain injury, a lack of quality sleep may slow down the healing process.

Practical Tips to Improve Sleep After a Concussion

Improving your sleep quality post-concussion can greatly aid in recovery. Here are some simple, actionable tips to help you get better rest:

1. Establish a Sleep Routine

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

• Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down.

2. Optimise Your Sleep Environment

• Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet. Use earplugs or white noise machines to block out distracting sounds.

• Remove electronic devices from the bedroom, as the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your sleep.

3. Limit Caffeine and Screen Time

• Avoid consuming caffeine in the afternoon and evening.

• Reduce screen time an hour before bed, as electronic devices can make it more difficult to fall asleep.

4. Practice Relaxation Techniques

• Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to calm your mind before bedtime.

5. Consult a Specialist

• If sleep disturbances persist, consult with healthcare professionals who specialize in concussion recovery. At Concussion Care, we work with patients to create personalised recovery plans, which often include strategies to improve sleep.

When to Seek Help

While many concussion symptoms, including sleep issues, improve over time, it's essential to seek medical advice if your symptoms worsen or don't improve. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent difficulty sleeping.

• Increased irritability or mood changes.

• Worsening memory or concentration issues.

Concussion Care offers expert guidance to help you on your journey to recovery. If you're struggling with sleep issues after a concussion, our team can help you create a tailored plan to improve your sleep and overall well-being.

Restoring Sleep After a Concussion

Sleep is vital for healing after a brain injury. At Concussion Care, we understand the challenges of post-concussion recovery and are here to provide comprehensive, empathetic care. By following the tips outlined above, you can start improving your sleep and take a crucial step toward better health.