Sleep Disturbances Following Traumatic Brain Injury

Sleep disorders commonly complicate the course following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Insomnia, excessive daytime somnolence and alteration of the sleep-wake schedule are common disturbances that affect the course of recovery and prognosis in TBI survivors. Few studies, however, have looked at the diagnosis and management of these disturbances in TBI. Early treatment of sleep disorders must be considered an integral part of the rehabilitation process. Recognition and management of comorbid medical or surgical diseases, assessment and treatment of associated psychiatric disorders, and awareness of other psychosocial stressors are mandatory steps in the management of sleep disturbances following TBI. In addition to pharmacologic therapy, nonpharmacologic approaches such as diet, environmental modification, and behavioral interventions are essential components in the management of sleep disturbances in TBI. Based on the evidence that sleep disturbances impact rehabilitation in TBI patients we support the need for ongoing studies in this area.