SLEEP DISORDER

Types

• Temporary disturbance of sleep pattem: disruption related to change in routine / travel.
• Sleep disorder secondary to other cause, eg. depression, anxiety, pain, itch.
• Permanent insomnia without obvious underlying cause, eg. change in sleep requirement as part of ageing process.

Danger signs

• Depression/psychiatric disease. May present with any disturbance of sleep pattem. Have a hard look for underlying cause and if suspected contact GP. Psychologically disturbed people have a high risk of taking overdoses.
• Underlying Physical Cause. If considered likely refer to GP

Notes for children

• No self-medication for under 16 years. Contact GP

Notes for the elderly

• Beware increased risk of side effects from Antihistamines and possible drug reactions.
• Elderly do not need to medicate for falling sleep requirement.

General advice

• Look at routine - no caffeine in the evening, relaxing plan before bedtime
• Exercise / socialisation to reduce stress.

Therapy

• Antihistamines for sedative side effects. Short term use in over 16 years.
• Herbal remedies.

More Information