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Published on: June 30, 2014
Prevalence of sleep problems in individuals with multiple sclerosis
A M Bamer1, K L Johnson, D Amtmann
1Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. adigiaco@u.washington.edu
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|July 18, 2008
Summary
Sleep disorders are common in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, affecting them more than the general population. Routine evaluation and new treatments for MS sleep disturbance are recommended.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sleep disturbance is under-researched in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Sleep issues may significantly impact the experience of MS.
- Understanding sleep disorder prevalence in MS is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of sleep disorders in a large community-based sample of individuals with MS.
- To provide data on the frequency of sleep problems within the MS population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted.
- 1063 individuals with MS participated.
- Sleep was assessed using validated instruments: the Women's Health Initiative Insomnia Rating Scale and the Medical Outcomes Study Sleep measure.
Main Results:
- Sleep problems are significantly more prevalent in individuals with MS compared to the general population.
- The prevalence of sleep issues in MS is higher than in other chronic diseases.
- Women with MS may experience sleep disturbances more frequently than men with MS.
Conclusions:
- Sleep disturbance is a significant issue in multiple sclerosis that warrants routine clinical evaluation.
- There is a need for the development of novel interventions to address sleep problems in MS patients.
- Integrating sleep assessments into routine MS care is recommended.
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