SLEEP AND CIRCADIAN RHYTHM DISORDERS IN PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Curr Sleep Med Rep. 2017 Sep;3(3):222-234. doi: 10.1007/s40675-017-0079-y. Epub 2017 Jul 6.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Sleep disorders are among the most challenging non-motor features of Parkinson's disease (PD) and significantly affect quality of life. Research in this field has gained recent interest among clinicians and scientists and is rapidly evolving. This review is dedicated to sleep and circadian dysfunction associated with PD.

Recent findings: Most primary sleep disorders may co-exist with PD; majority of these disorders have unique features when expressed in the PD population.

Summary: We discuss the specific considerations related to the common sleep problems in Parkinson's disease including insomnia, rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, restless legs syndrome, sleep disordered breathing, excessive daytime sleepiness and circadian rhythm disorders. Within each of these sleep disorders, we present updated definitions, epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, clinical implications and management. Furthermore, areas of potential interest for further research are outlined.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease; circadian rhythm disorders; non-motor symptoms; sleep disorders; sleepiness.