[Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and sleep disorders]
Luis Domínguez-Ortega1, Aida de Vicente-Colomina
1Clínica Ruber, Madrid, Spain. luis.dominguez@clinicaludor.com
Insights
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often co-occurs with sleep problems due to shared neurobiological mechanisms. Addressing sleep issues in children with ADHD can improve symptoms and reduce stimulant medication needs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychiatry
- Sleep Medicine
Context:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood disorder with significant functional impairment.
- Sleep disturbances frequently co-exist with ADHD, suggesting shared underlying mechanisms.
Purpose:
- To review the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, comorbidity, course, and treatment of ADHD.
- To highlight the intricate relationship between ADHD and sleep disorders, emphasizing shared neurobiology.
Summary:
- ADHD and sleep problems like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and periodic limb movements can present overlapping symptoms.
- Children evaluated for ADHD require systematic assessment for sleep disturbances.
- Treating co-existing sleep disorders in ADHD can lead to symptom improvement and reduced stimulant reliance.
Impact:
- Informing clinical practice for comprehensive ADHD assessment and management.
- Enhancing understanding of the neurobiological links between ADHD and sleep-wake regulation.
- Guiding therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for children with ADHD and comorbid sleep conditions.
Abstract:
The attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an heterogeneous, complex and common childhood disorder that causes significant impairment of child's functioning. This paper reviews the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, comorbidity, course and treatment of ADHD. Special attention is paid to sleep problems both because these 2 conditions frequently co-exist and because there is substantial evidence that ADHD psychopathology and sleep-wake regulation share common neurobiologic mechanisms. Moreover, there could be an overlap between symptoms of ADHD and certain sleep problems such as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, restless leg syndrome and periodic limb movements of sleep. Children undergoing evaluation for ADHD should be systematically assessed for sleep disturbances because treatment of sleep disorders is often associated with improved symptomatology and decreased need for stimulants.
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