Sleep and Sleep–Wake Disorders
First published: 16 April 2008
Summary
Clinicians, particularly psychiatrists and psychologists, need to master a general working knowledge of sleep and chronobiology. Disorders of sleep such as insomnia, narcolepsy, sleep apnea, restless legs, and periodic limb movements in sleep are common and treatable. Circadian rhythms disorders need to be ruled out before treatment for insomnia is initiated. Many of these disorders are co-morbid with psychiatric illness. Clinicians must understand the clinical manifestations of sleep disorders, and be able to make a differential diagnosis. Last but not least, clinicians need to understand how to clinically manage sleep disorders themselves, and when to refer to a sleep specialist.
