Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 19, 2026

Manipulation of Epileptiform Electrocorticograms ECoGs and Sleep in Rats and Mice by Acupuncture
09:06

Manipulation of Epileptiform Electrocorticograms ECoGs and Sleep in Rats and Mice by Acupuncture

Published on: December 22, 2016

10.2K

Sleep, epilepsy, and autism

Jennifer A Accardo1, Beth A Malow2

  • 1Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Baltimore, MD, USA; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Baltimore, MD, USA.

Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|December 16, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Sleep and epilepsy have a two-way relationship, especially in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Addressing sleep issues in children with ASD may improve seizure control and behavior. Special considerations for treating sleep disorders in this population are reviewed.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Epilepsy and sleep disorders are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • A bidirectional relationship exists between sleep disturbances and epilepsy.
  • These co-occurring conditions significantly impact quality of life for children with ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the complex links between sleep and epilepsy in children with ASD.
  • To explore the importance of managing sleep problems in this population.
  • To discuss special considerations for evaluating and treating sleep disorders in children with ASD and epilepsy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on sleep, epilepsy, and ASD.
  • Synthesis of findings regarding the interplay between these conditions.
  • Identification of best practices for diagnosis and management.

Main Results:

  • Sleep problems are highly prevalent in children with ASD and are closely linked to epilepsy.
  • Effective identification and management of sleep disorders can potentially improve seizure control.
  • Addressing sleep issues may also lead to a reduction in challenging behaviors associated with ASD.

Conclusions:

  • Sleep is a critical factor to address in the comprehensive care of children with ASD and epilepsy.
  • Targeting sleep disorders offers a promising avenue for improving overall health outcomes.
  • Further research and tailored clinical approaches are needed for this vulnerable population.

Keywords:
AutismAutism spectrum disorderComorbiditiesEpilepsySleep

More Related Videos

Multi-system Monitoring for Identification of Seizures, Arrhythmias and Apnea in Conscious Restrained Rabbits10:25

Multi-system Monitoring for Identification of Seizures, Arrhythmias and Apnea in Conscious Restrained Rabbits

Published on: March 27, 2021

6.9K
Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Kindling Mouse Model07:06

Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Kindling Mouse Model

Published on: June 12, 2018

35.6K

Related Concept Videos

Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview01:24

Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease marked by recurrent, unpredictable seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, leading to behavior, sensation, or consciousness alterations. They can also cause transient impairment of awareness, interfering with daily activities.
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
1.8K
Seizures: Classification01:13

Seizures: Classification

Epilepsy is primarily characterized by unpredictable seizures, either provoked by an identifiable factor, such as injury or illness, or unprovoked, occurring spontaneously without apparent cause.
Seizures are typically classified into two main categories: focal and generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures originate from specific regions of the brain. These seizures are further sub-classified into two types:
2.5K
Epilepsy ll: Types01:22

Epilepsy ll: Types

Recurrent seizures, stemming from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, are the defining characteristic of epilepsy, a chronic neurological condition. Because seizure features vary greatly, epilepsy is classified using two systems: by seizure type and by epilepsy syndromes. These classifications enable clinicians to describe seizure patterns and select suitable treatment strategies.I. Classification by Seizure Type1. Focal EpilepsyFocal epilepsy begins in one hemisphere of the brain.
15
Seizures l: Introduction01:20

Seizures l: Introduction

Understanding seizures and epilepsy relies on key definitions that help in recognizing, classifying, and managing these disorders. These definitions provide a framework for recognizing, classifying, and managing seizure disorders.DefinitionsA seizure is a sudden, abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in awareness, movement, sensation, or behavior, depending on the area involved. Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures,...
8
Narcolepsy01:07

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by pervasive, uncontrolled sleepiness and other sleep disturbances. One of its hallmark symptoms is an abrupt transition to REM sleep upon falling asleep, which causes symptoms typically associated with this phase to occur unexpectedly during wakefulness. These include the following symptoms, which typically last from a minute or two to half an hour.
841
Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
2.0K