Is a Concussion Safe to Follow with Sleep Immediately?

The Cleveland Clinic, a renowned non-profit academic medical center, has shed light on the importance of rest in the healing process of a concussion. Primary care sports medicine physician, Richard Figler, MD, has emphasised that sleep is crucial for recovery.

Contrary to popular belief, waking a person with a suspected concussion will not speed up their recovery. In fact, waking someone up or not letting them sleep can be counterproductive during the healing process. There is no evidence to suggest that waking someone up with a suspected concussion is beneficial, and it's important to avoid doing so.

However, checking on a person with a concussion to ensure their breathing is normal and they are peacefully resting is acceptable, without waking them. Sleeping for a full eight hours is more beneficial for a person with a concussion than waking them every hour.

It's also worth noting that the idea that falling asleep after a head injury could lead to a coma is not true. Similarly, there is no proof that not letting someone sleep after a head injury is necessary.

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However, this advice about concussions does not apply to medical emergencies requiring immediate attention or professional medical care. It's always important to seek medical attention if a person with a concussion is not breathing normally.

In the event of a concussion, Richard Figler recommends close observation of the person for at least 24 hours. This observation should include checking for changes in consciousness, pupil size, neurological symptoms, and vital signs. If deterioration occurs, immediate medical evaluation is required.

In conclusion, rest is essential for a concussion to heal, and waking someone up with a suspected concussion will not help them recover faster. It's crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure the best possible outcome for those affected by concussions.