Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) like concussions cause many problems, such as impaired memory or loss of balance and coordination. A little known side effect, however, is the effect on sleep. Recent research shows that many of those who suffer from concussions end up with a range of sleep disorders. Poor sleep not only impairs your marital relationship, but it also increases the risk of depression and other mood disorders. Contact a Miami personal injury lawyer to learn more about your ability to receive compensation following a traumatic brain injury.
Wide Range of Sleep Disorders
The study, discussed by Medical Express, involved almost 100,000 veterans who had been diagnosed with a TBI. Researchers compared their sleep habits to an equal number who had no history of brain injury.
They found that over a 14 year period about 1 in 4 of those who suffered a TBI developed a sleep disorder, compared to only 16% of those who never had a brain injury. The disorders included excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep apnea, insomnia, and sleep-related movement disorders like restless leg syndrome. In fact, researchers found an increase in prevalence for every single disorder that they investigated.
In all, those who suffered from a TBI were 40% more likely to develop a sleep disorder over a 14-year period. Interestingly, the link was strongest for those who had a relatively mild concussion compared to a more serious TBI. The study also found no link between post-traumatic stress disorder and sleep disorders. Although PTSD can be fairly common for those who serve in the armed services, it did not increase the risk of a sleep disorder.
Far-Reaching Effects
Disorders like sleep apnea can dramatically impair a person’s life. With this disorder, a person’s breathing stops repeatedly in the night, causing the person to wake up. Consequently, they can suffer from difficulty functioning during the day due to fatigue.
Sleep disruption can also slow the recovery process from the TBI itself. A different study of veterans found that those with poor sleep suffered from a greater number of post-concussive symptoms. Deep sleep is therefore critical for bouncing back from a concussion or other TBI.
Get the Compensation You Need
Impaired sleep, daytime fatigue, and irritability are examples of the pain and suffering that accident victims endure. Our clients deserve compensation when a TBI prevents restful and healthy sleep. Following an accident, remember to fully document your sleep each night, noting the number of hours slept and how restful it was.
Also remember to contact Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP today to learn more about your right to compensation. One of our Miami personal injury lawyers will meet for free if you call 305-371-2692.