Can You Sleep with a Concussion? Myth vs. Facts
For years, myths have circulated in homes, locker rooms, and even some medical settings regarding sleep after a concussion. Common beliefs include the necessity of waking the individual every few hours during the night or the notion that sleeping after a concussion is dangerous as the person may not wake up. This advice is outdated, and potentially counterproductive. Let’s break down the facts and separate myths from reality.
Myth: Don’t Let Them Sleep
The idea that people with concussions should not sleep stems from a fear that they may not wake up. However, experts now agree that this myth has been thoroughly debunked. After a more serious injury such as a skull fracture or brain bleed has been ruled out, sleeping is encouraged after a concussion. This is why it is important to seek medical care early, especially if emergency signs of concussion are present. Emergency care should be sought immediately if the following are present:
- Severe headache
- Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
- Increasing confusion, restlessness, agitation or unusual behavior
- Repeated vomiting
- Increased drowsiness or cannot be awakened
- Slurred speech
- Convulsions or seizures
Fact: Sleep Is Healing
Once a concussion has been properly diagnosed and more serious conditions ruled out, sleep is not only safe but essential. Sleep plays a critical role in brain recovery: it helps regulate mood, restore cognitive function, and reduce symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
In fact, studies indicate that poor sleep after a concussion can prolong recovery. It is also well established that poor or broken sleep can worsen symptoms such as irritability, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating, which are common after a concussion. Addressing sleep quality early can significantly improve outcomes.
Fact: Good Sleep Hygiene Matters
To support recovery, it is important to practice good sleep hygiene. Below are a few practical sleep hygiene tips after a concussion:
- Stick to a routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends.
- Limit screen time: Avoid screens at least 30 minutes before bed.
- Create a restful environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
- Avoid stimulants: Skip caffeine and sugary foods/drinks in the afternoon and evening.
- Limit naps: While short naps are okay in the 48 hours after injury, avoid long or late naps that can disrupt nighttime sleep.
Final Thoughts
The myth that people with concussions should not sleep or must be woken up throughout the night is not only outdated, but it may hinder recovery. Sleep, when guided by medical advice and supported by healthy habits, is one of the most powerful tools for healing the brain after a concussion. At the Concussion Clinic at Horizon Neuropsychological Services, we ensure that patients and families receive the proper advice after a concussion with evidence-based care informed by the latest research. Contact us *here* to schedule an evaluation and get a clear, personalized recovery plan.
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