Sleep disturbances are one of the most common consequences of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). In fact, statistics show that anywhere between 30% and 70% of those who sustain TBI experience sleep problems. Not getting adequate sleep can be detrimental to one’s overall health and lead to or worsen other disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue.
The Impact of TBI on Sleep
Since the brain is responsible for putting the body to sleep, trauma to this part of the body or treatments needed to heal it can ultimately lead to changes in sleep patterns to full-on sleep disorders. Such changes can be the result of:
- Physical and chemical changes in the brain
- Changes in breathing control and patterns
- Prescribed medications that cause insomnia
- Daytime napping or physical inactivity during recovery
- Chronic pain
- Depression or anxiety
Some of the most common types of sleep problems related to TBI include:
- Insomnia
- Sleep apnea
- Delayed sleep phase syndrome
- Narcolepsy
- Restless leg syndrome
- Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)
- Sleepwalking
How to Improve Sleep After TBI
Your body needs sleep, especially while recovering from a traumatic brain injury. If your symptoms are long-lasting and impacting your day-to-day life, you should visit your doctor to find out what can be done to improve your sleep quality.
Additionally, the best way that you can improve TBI-related sleep problems yourself is through changes in behavior known as “good sleep hygiene,” which includes:
- Going to bed and getting up at the same time every day.
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
- Getting some exercise and sunshine every day (even if it’s just for 15 minutes each day!).
- Resting during the day instead of napping.
- Not watching tv or playing on your laptop while in bed.
- Keeping your bedroom dark and comfortable.
Do You Struggle With TBI?
At the Law Offices of Vic Feazell, we understand that lost sleep and other secondary conditions of TBI can negatively impact one’s quality of life. As an accident victim, we believe that you should not have to bear the burden of paying for your related medical expenses and lost wages.
Our Waco brain injury attorneys are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and protecting your rights to compensation. We will fight hard to ensure that you receive what you need for a full recovery.
Contact our firm at (254) 938-6885 to speak with our legal team for free today!