Le neurologue : revue clinique et thérapeutique

Abstrait

An Overview of Sleep Disorders

Dhondt Ortibus

Sleep, an essential physiological process, plays a fundamental role in human health and well-being. However, sleep disorders disrupt this delicate equilibrium, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of sleep disorders, encompassing their classification, common types, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Sleep disorders encompass a wide spectrum of conditions that interfere with the normal sleep-wake cycle. These disorders can lead to debilitating consequences, including daytime fatigue, impaired cognitive function, and even chronic health problems. Understanding the landscape of sleep disorders is crucial for healthcare professionals, researchers, and the general public alike. This overview begins by categorizing sleep disorders into several key groups, including insomnia, sleep-related breathing disorders, parasomnias, and circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders. Each category is explored in depth, shedding light on the specific characteristics and symptoms associated with common sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and restless legs syndrome. The causes of sleep disorders are multifactorial, encompassing genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Stress, poor sleep hygiene, shift work, and underlying medical conditions can contribute to the development of sleep disturbances. Additionally, advancements in sleep medicine have highlighted the role of genetics in certain sleep disorders. Diagnosing sleep disorders often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, sleep studies (polysomnography), and patient-reported symptoms. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for implementing effective treatment strategies, which can range from lifestyle modifications and behavioral therapy to pharmacological interventions and medical devices. This abstract emphasizes the importance of recognizing the impact of sleep disorders on individuals’ overall health and quality of life. It highlights the potential consequences of untreated sleep disorders, such as increased risk of cardiovascular disease, mental health issues, and impaired daytime functioning.