Sleep disorders and concussion

Abstract

Sleep disorders are a common sequel of sports-related concussion. Sleep-wake dysfunction can vary among patients, independent of cause or severity of concussive injury. The pathogenesis of postconcussive sleep disorder is unclear, but may be related to impaired signaling in neurons involved in normal sleep-wake control and circadian rhythm maintenance. Standardized methods of assessment for sleep disorders following concussion are important for diagnosis and management. Appropriate management is key because sleep dysfunction can have deleterious effects on concussion recovery. Management is patient-specific, based on sleep pathology and comorbid postconcussive symptomatology.

Keywords: concussion; daytime sleepiness; polysomnography; postconcussive syndrome; sleep disorders; traumatic brain injury.