Sleep disorders are conditions that disturb the quality, timing, or duration of sleep. Proper sleep is essential for physical and mental health. When sleep is frequently disrupted, it affects concentration, energy, mood, and overall well-being. Sleep disorders can occur due to lifestyle habits, medical problems, medications, or psychological stress.
1. Types of Sleep Disorders
A. Insomnia
Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. It may be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic).
B. Sleep Apnea
Repeated episodes of breathing stopping during sleep. Most common type is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), caused by airway blockage.
C. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
An uncomfortable urge to move the legs, especially during rest or at night.
D. Narcolepsy
A neurological disorder causing sudden, uncontrollable sleep attacks during the day.
E. Parasomnias
Abnormal behaviors during sleep such as sleepwalking, night terrors, and nightmares.
2. Causes and Risk Factors
- Stress and anxiety
- Poor sleep habits
- Chronic medical conditions (asthma, heart disease, pain)
- Medications like steroids or stimulants
- Alcohol, caffeine, or smoking
- Shift work or irregular schedules
- Obesity (sleep apnea)
3. Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
General Symptoms
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Frequent night awakenings
- Morning tiredness
- Daytime sleepiness
- Trouble concentrating
- Mood changes
Specific Symptoms
Sleep Apnea: Loud snoring, choking during sleep, morning headaches.
Narcolepsy: Sudden muscle weakness (cataplexy), sleep paralysis.
RLS: Tingling or crawling sensation in legs that improves with movement.
4. Diagnosis
- Medical history and sleep pattern evaluation
- Sleep diary
- Polysomnography (overnight sleep study)
- Actigraphy (wrist device to track sleep)
- Blood tests for thyroid or iron levels
5. Treatment of Sleep Disorders
A. Treatment of Insomnia
1. Non-Drug Measures (First-line)
- Maintain regular sleep schedule
- Limit caffeine and screen time before bed
- Relaxation and breathing techniques
- Exercise in the daytime
2. Medications
- Benzodiazepines: Diazepam, Lorazepam
- Non-benzodiazepine hypnotics: Zolpidem, Zaleplon
- Melatonin and melatonin agonists
- Antihistamines (short-term use)
B. Treatment of Sleep Apnea
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device
- Weight reduction
- Surgery in selected cases
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives
C. Treatment of Restless Leg Syndrome
- Iron supplements (if deficiency present)
- Dopaminergic agents: Pramipexole, Ropinirole
- Gabapentin or Pregabalin
D. Treatment of Narcolepsy
- Stimulants: Modafinil, Methylphenidate
- Antidepressants for cataplexy
6. Complications
- Daytime fatigue and poor productivity
- Increased risk of accidents
- Heart disease (sleep apnea)
- Mood disorders
- Memory problems
7. Sleep Hygiene Tips
- Stick to a consistent sleep routine
- Keep bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
- Avoid heavy meals before bedtime
- No screens for at least 1 hour before sleep
- Limit daytime naps
8. Role of the Pharmacist
- Counsel patients on proper sleep hygiene
- Review medications that may disturb sleep
- Monitor for side effects of sleep medicines
- Guide on safe use of hypnotics and avoiding dependence
- Support lifestyle changes
Detailed Notes:
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