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[Insomnia: definitions, epidemiology and changes with age]
Julie Margrethe Dubois1, Alexandre Rouen2, Damien Léger1
1Université Paris-Cité, VIFASOM (Vigilance, fatigue, sommeil et santé publique) ERC 7330, Paris, France. Centre du sommeil et de la vigilance et consultation de ressources en pathologies professionnelles (sommeil, vigilance et travail) DMU Thoros, Hôtel-Dieu, AP-HP, Paris, France.
La Revue Du Praticien
|March 29, 2024
Summary
Chronic insomnia, a sleep disorder affecting quality and daytime function, requires early identification. Prompt diagnosis and care improve patient quality of life and prevent long-term consequences.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Context:
- Chronic insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by subjective complaints about sleep quality or quantity.
- It significantly impacts daily functioning and is a common reason for seeking medical consultation.
- The disorder requires a minimum duration of 3 months with symptoms occurring 3 nights per week.
Purpose:
- To define chronic insomnia, including its epidemiological characteristics and age-related changes.
- To emphasize the importance of early identification across all age groups.
- To highlight the necessity of establishing adequate care for individuals with chronic insomnia.
Summary:
- Chronic insomnia is defined by persistent sleep disturbances and associated daytime impairment, lasting at least three months.
- This condition is widespread in the general population and frequently encountered in primary care settings.
- Understanding its definition and prevalence is crucial for effective management.
Impact:
- Early identification and management of chronic insomnia can significantly improve patients' quality of life.
- Timely intervention helps prevent the long-term adverse consequences associated with untreated chronic insomnia.
- Effective care strategies are essential for addressing this common sleep disorder across the lifespan.
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