Sleep disturbances and their management in patients with brain injury.
OBJECTIVE
Sleep disturbances in people with brain injuries, although quite common, remain a problematic management issue for caregivers. This article will review the architecture of sleep, the assessment of insomnia, and discussion of common medications that may exacerbate the problem. Nonpharmacological management techniques, including stimulus control, sleep restriction, and relaxation therapy, will also be discussed.


METHODS
An intensive analysis of pharmacological agents used in treatment, including descriptions of the positive and negative effects of the various classes of drugs (e.g., sedative/hypnotics, antihistamines, dopamine agonists, and stimulants) will be provided.


CONCLUSIONS
These discussions will hopefully assist in the decision-making processes of caregivers managing this unique group of persons with sleep difficulties.
Thaxton
Lora
L
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medical College of Ohio, Room 1577 Dowling Hall, 3065 Arlington Avenue, Toledo, OH 43614-5807, USA. lthaxton@mco.edu
Myers
Mary Ann
MA
D001676:Biofeedback, Psychology; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015601:Injury Severity Score; D008297:Male; D019122:Meditation; D011379:Prognosis; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives