Which sleep disturbance is associated with mild TBI?

Which sleep disturbance is associated with mild TBI?

• A. Drowsiness
• B. Sleeping for long hours
• C. Insomnia
• D. Nightmares

Answer: (A)

Daytime drowsiness reflects disruption of sleep–wake regulation after a mild brain injury. The injury can affect brain networks that control arousal and circadian rhythms, so people often feel fatigued and sleepy during the day even if they didn’t sleep poorly at night. This daytime sleepiness is a common and characteristic finding after mild TBI, contributing to difficulty with concentration, memory, and daily tasks. Insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep) can occur but is not as consistently linked to mild TBI as daytime sleepiness. Sleeping longer than usual can happen but is less typical. Nightmares may occur, especially if PTSD or more severe injuries are involved, but they are not the hallmark sleep disturbance of mild TBI.

Daytime drowsiness reflects disruption of sleep–wake regulation after a mild brain injury. The injury can affect brain networks that control arousal and circadian rhythms, so people often feel fatigued and sleepy during the day even if they didn’t sleep poorly at night. This daytime sleepiness is a common and characteristic finding after mild TBI, contributing to difficulty with concentration, memory, and daily tasks.

Insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep) can occur but is not as consistently linked to mild TBI as daytime sleepiness. Sleeping longer than usual can happen but is less typical. Nightmares may occur, especially if PTSD or more severe injuries are involved, but they are not the hallmark sleep disturbance of mild TBI.