Connection between sleep disorders and seizures
The connection between sleep disorders and seizures is still
unknown. The studies conducted in different regions and age groups showed the
dissimilar results. Even the percentage of females and males suffered sleep
loss due seizures varies in different researches. A detailed study carried out
in Oman
between 2011 and 2012, does not show the clear link between sleep disorders and
seizures. During this study, 100 people with epilepsy were selected to find out
the relation between seizures and sleep. Another study showed 10% adults and
20% children with epilepsy were found with obstructive sleep apnea which is
known a serious sleep disorder. Moreover, 30% of the patients with drug-resistance
epilepsy were found with obstructive sleep apnea.
Factors showing links between sleep disorders and seizures:
Obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of cardiovascular
disorders. Moreover, OSA (Obstructive sleep apnea) also causes metabolic disorders.
Although, the direct connection between sleep disorders and seizures is
undefined; however, the complications caused by OSA may lead to sleep issues. The
cardiovascular and metabolic disorders may increase the risk of seizures in already
developed epileptic patients. Sleep deprivation and intermittent hypoxia caused
by obstructive sleep apnea may also increase the frequency of seizures. The
increased frequency of seizures also leads to sleep disorders.
Precautionary measures for the patients
The solid connection between sleep disorders and
seizures is unknown. Whether there is no specific study to link the sleep
disorders and fits or I could not find the reasonable material. However, the
above mentioned possibilities prove that increased frequency of seizures can
cause sleep problems in the patients. Usually, the epileptic patients suffer a
lot due to irregular fits. The sleep deprivation and fragmentation may further
aggravate the condition of the patients. Therefore, it is recommended that the epileptic
patients should be given regular medication to prevent the seizures. It will
helpful for the patients to improve his/her sleep.