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Sleep and fatigue following traumatic brain injury
Jennie L Ponsford1, Kelly L Sinclair1
1School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
Abstract:
This article reviews literature relating to sleep disturbance and fatigue after traumatic brain injury. It discusses the nature and prevalence of sleep disturbances associated with traumatic brain injury and the measures used to assess them. Potential causes are discussed, including damage to sleep-wake regulating centers, disruption of circadian timing of sleep, and secondary causes, such as pain, depression, and anxiety. The nature and assessment of fatigue are discussed, followed by a review of evidence regarding causes. Evidence is reviewed of the consequences of sleep disturbance and fatigue. Potential treatments of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic natures are reviewed.
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