Overview
Sleep is fundamental to brain health. Sleep disorders include insomnia, restless legs syndrome, excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep-behaviour disorders (e.g. in REM sleep).
They are often linked to neurological conditions — such as Parkinson's disease or headaches — which is why a neurological assessment is particularly valuable.
Symptoms
Symptoms may affect both night-time sleep and daytime functioning:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Unrefreshing sleep
- An unpleasant sensation / urge to move the legs at night
- Marked movement or 'acting out' dreams during sleep
Causes
Sleep disorders may be due to stress and anxiety, poor sleep hygiene, neurological conditions (e.g. restless legs syndrome, Parkinson's), disorders of other systems, certain medications or excessive caffeine and screen use before bed.
Diagnosis
Assessment begins with a detailed sleep history and, where helpful, a sleep diary. The neurological examination aims to identify underlying causes.
Where needed, referral is made for a sleep study (polysomnography) at a partner centre, especially when a sleep-related breathing disorder is suspected.
Treatment approach
The approach is individualised and holistic. Improving sleep hygiene and non-pharmacological techniques are the foundation, while the underlying cause is always addressed (e.g. restless legs syndrome, anxiety).
Medication is used sparingly and only when indicated, avoiding long-term dependence on sleeping pills.
When to see a neurologist
- Chronic insomnia that affects functioning and mood
- Excessive sleepiness or involuntary sleep episodes during the day
- Marked movement or 'acting out' dreams during sleep
- Troublesome restless legs syndrome that disrupts sleep