Could a brain injury affect your child’s sleep?

Growing up with cuts, bruises and knots on the head from playing outside are sometimes considered summer trophies for kids. And while most of the time these minor injuries simply heal themselves within a couple of weeks, some have a more lasting effect — and are often the least noticeable.

A recent study has shown that head injuries resulting in brain trauma (concussions) can potentially affect a child’s sleep for the rest of their lives. These types of injuries, often caused by falling off a bike or playing a physical sport, are shrugged of much of the time by parents and coaches alike. But the old adage of kids healing faster does not seem to hold as much water.

The study observed two control groups of children and their sleep pattern. One group had suffered concussions previously, while the other had not. The results showed a poorer quality of sleep in the first group. They also suffered from more daytime sleepiness as a result.

This kind of consequence had long been known in adults; 30 to 70 percent of concussion patients reported some kind of sleep disturbance. But this was the first time children had been shown to suffer the same way. While some treatments are available, most of the healing must be done by the body itself, which can take years.

Anyone in Mesquite who has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to someone else’s negligence should may want to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. They will be able to analyze the case and determine if compensation is due to the victim.