Parasomnias

Abstract

"Parasomnia" is a broad term denoting a wide variety of abnormal behaviours during sleep. It is best understood by classifying these into the type of sleep from which they arise, particularly whether they occur at the transition between sleep and wakefulness or from non-rapid eye movement or rapid eye movement sleep. The events may lead to injuries both to the subject and to the bed partner. It is important to analyse the trigger factors for the activities and to assess the contribution of other factors, such as sleep deprivation and drugs. Investigations particularly polysomnography are generally required if there is an atypical presentation, if other sleep disorders may be contributing or if there is a failure to respond to initial treatment. Most parasomnias require a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Primarily neuropsychiatric disorders including the restless legs syndrome, epilepsy and dissociative disorders may present as parasomnias, and require specific treatments.