It is no secret how damaging a car accident can be toward the victims of the accident. Catastrophic injuries can cause a victim to live with serious scars or burns, lose an arm or leg, or become paralyzed as a paraplegic or quadriplegic. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are an injury that can cause a wide range of consequences, including memory loss and cognitive skills deterioration.
How does a TBI affect sleep?
Because the brain controls the entire body, a TBI has the ability to influence how the brain performs that control. One of the ways a TBI can change things is by how a person sleeps. Researchers have noticed victims of TBIs suffer sleep issues such as:
- Insomnia
- Narcolepsy
- Hypersomnia disorders
- Movement disorders while sleeping
- Breathing disorders while sleeping
A TBI can affect a victim’s ability to sleep and many other areas of their life by extension. Lack of good sleep can reduce a person’s ability to work, enjoy time with their loved ones, and can have other negative consequences to their health. Significant consequences like narcolepsy can prevent a person from doing tasks like performing a job entirely.
Do not ignore sleep issues
If you were in a car accident and are experiencing trouble sleeping, it may sign a traumatic brain injury. Be sure to consult with a doctor to confirm whether or not you suffered a traumatic brain injury after your accident. Spotting a TBI early can allow you to get the treatment you need to protect your health and take action to remedy the symptoms.