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Sleep disorders in chronic kidney disease
Owen D Lyons1,2,3,4
1Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. owen.lyons@wchospital.ca.
Nature Reviews. Nephrology
|May 24, 2024
Summary
Sleep disorders like restless legs syndrome and insomnia are common in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Early diagnosis and treatment of these sleep issues are vital for CKD patient well-being.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Sleep Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Sleep disorders are frequently undiagnosed in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- Common sleep issues include restless legs syndrome, insomnia, and sleep apnoea, impacting patient quality of life.
- CKD and sleep apnoea share a bidirectional relationship, with sleep apnoea potentially accelerating CKD progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and impact of sleep disorders in chronic kidney disease.
- To underscore the importance of recognizing and managing sleep disorders in CKD patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current research on sleep disorders in CKD.
- Analysis of the relationship between CKD, restless legs syndrome, insomnia, and sleep apnoea.
Main Results:
- Restless legs syndrome in CKD is linked to dopamine metabolism, iron deficiency, and uraemia, causing poor sleep and fatigue.
- Insomnia is prevalent in CKD patients, especially those on dialysis, due to multifactorial causes including uraemia and medications.
- Sleep apnoea is a risk factor for CKD progression and worsens cardiovascular outcomes in CKD patients.
Conclusions:
- Increased awareness and timely diagnosis of sleep disorders are crucial for CKD management.
- Appropriate therapeutic interventions can mitigate the adverse effects of sleep disorders on CKD patients.
- Addressing sleep disorders improves quality of life and reduces morbidity and mortality in chronic kidney disease.
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