Sleep Disorders in Neurologic Practice: A Case-based Approach

Neurol Clin. 2016 Aug;34(3):565-94. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2016.04.003.

Abstract

Sleep disorders are common in neurology practice, but are often undiagnosed and untreated. Specific patient cohorts, such as older adults, patients residing in nursing homes, and patients with underlying chronic neurologic and psychiatric disorders, are at particular risk. If these sleep problems are not properly evaluated and managed the patient may experience exacerbation of the underlying neurologic disorder. This article highlights some of the key sleep disorders relevant to practicing neurologists, emphasizing hypersomnolence, insomnia, and sleep-related movement disorders in the setting of neurologic disorders to enhance the tools available for evaluation, and discusses management strategies.

Keywords: Circadian rhythm disorders; Insomnia; Narcolepsy; REM sleep behavior disorder; Restless leg syndrome; Sleep apnea; Sleep disorders.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nervous System Diseases / complications
  • Nervous System Diseases / therapy*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / etiology
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / therapy*