This study evaluated the role of sleep disturbance in 39 patients with post-concussion syndrome (PCS). The researchers found a higher reported rate of sleeping difficulties among closed head injury patients when compared to patients with non-cranial orthopedic injuries. Overall, PCS patients reported difficulties in falling asleep, sleep duration, nocturnal awakenings, and daytime sleepiness—which involves daytime fatigue and napping at inappropriate times and places.
The researchers offer varying explanations for the sleep difficulties, including the effects of medications, psychological and psychiatric factors, and the possibility that head injuries induce a behavioral pattern of psychophysiological insomnia. The researchers conclude that mild head injuries may produce prolonged changes in the brain that may interfere with normal sleep. "Microlesions from twisting and shearing may damage structures associated with both arousal and sleep generation."
The authors conclude that sleep disturbance is indeed more common in patients with PCS, and that these symptoms should be looked for when evaluating patients with potential PCS.
Perlis M, Artiola L, Giles DE. Sleep complaints in chronic postconcussion syndrome. Perceptual and Motor Skills 1997; 84:595-599.