Thesis
Sleep disturbance, reported symptoms and cognitive function following concussion
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Nov 2014
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-6552
Abstract
Changes in sleep and sleep disturbance are persistent and prevalent following concussion. Furthermore, deficits in several key areas of neuropsychological functioning, including motor speed, executive function, memory, and attention have been well documented following a mild head injury. However, the relationship between sleep disturbance and cognitive status in concussed patients has received little attention. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep, reported post-concussive symptoms, and cognition (visual memory, verbal memory, speed of processing, and reaction time) in concussed patients in the acute phase (<4 months) of injury. It also aimed to describe a typical "sleep profile" post concussion, and to explore the efficacy of current rest recovery protocols. Participants included 18 post-concussive patients (55.6% female, mean age 35.78 years [SD=14.49]) treated at the Penn Concussion Clinic in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A high incidence (94%) reported at least one mild post-concussive sleep symptom at their intake appointment. Sleep variables related to cognition at both intake and exit, and were most strongly associated with motor processing speed and reaction time. Reported higher insomnia symptoms (e.g. sleeping less than usual and reported difficulty falling asleep) at a participant's intake appointment were strongly associated with poorer processing speed and slower reaction times at exit. This may suggest a particular need to address insomnia symptoms in an effort to accelerate concussion recovery.
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Details
- Title
- Sleep disturbance, reported symptoms and cognitive function following concussion
- Creators
- Caterina Britt Mosti - DU
- Contributors
- Mary Spiers (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)Jacqueline D. Kloss (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Psychological and Brain Sciences (Psychology); College of Arts and Sciences; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 6552; 991014632551404721