Autonomic dysfunction in primary sleep disorders

Abstract

The autonomic nervous system plays an important role in the coordination of many important physiologic functions during sleep. Many patients with untreated sleep disorders will describe symptoms of autonomic impairment, and a majority of patients with autonomic impairment have some form of sleep disorder. This article will explore possible explanations for this connection, as well as review the current literature on autonomic impairment in common primary sleep disorders including obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, narcolepsy, and rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder.

View details for DOI 10.1016/j.sleep.2015.10.001

View details for Web of Science ID 000376518600008

View details for PubMedID 27198946