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The Interface Between Sleep and Epilepsy

  • Sleep and Neurological Conditions (A Avidan, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of review

To highlight the role sleep plays in epilepsy and the importance for evaluating and treating sleep issues in patients with epilepsy.

Recent findings

Recent studies show that patients with epilepsy have a twofold greater prevalence of sleep complaints. These complaints can stem from the epilepsy or its treatment. The identification of sleep disorders may require further inquiry as some standard questionnaires are not as accurate in patients with less perceived symptoms. Further work suggests that discharges from the epileptic focus during sleep or wake may have differentiating effects on the physiological sleep processes. This offers new insights to the possible mechanisms contributing to the development of resistant epilepsies. Additional studies suggest treating sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, benefits some patients, as does treating epilepsy may improve sleep.

Summary

Sleep disorders are prevalent in patients with epilepsy. Recognizing and treating comorbid sleep disorders affect patient quality of life and seizure freedom.

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References

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  1. Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, CB #7025, 170 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7025, USA

    Ethan S. Yun & Bradley V. Vaughn

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Yun, E.S., Vaughn, B.V. The Interface Between Sleep and Epilepsy. Curr Sleep Medicine Rep 5, 61–70 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40675-019-00139-w

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