Prognosis of Sleep Disorders

There are various types of sleep disorder and prognosis depends on the type of sleep disorder, stage at which the therapy is initiated, and the compliance of the patient with treatment. Insomnia: Prognosis of short term insomnia is usually very good. However, chronic insomnia can sometimes be difficult to treat. The outcome of chronic insomnia also depends on coexisting medical conditions, such as arthritis, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic pain syndromes.

Obstructive sleep apnoea

Prognosis of sleep problems associated with obstructive sleep apnoea is excellent if effective treatment is started and used such as CPAP therapy and weight loss.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a dangerous sleep disorder which causes extreme sleepiness all of a sudden and the person falls asleep suddenly without any warning such as while driving, or even walking on the road. Prognosis of this sleep disorder despite of adequate therapy is guarded. It is usually a life-long problem. The symptoms may improve over time but they never completely disappear. According to some studies sleep disturbances at night may worsen as a person ages.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and PLMD (Periodic Limb Movement Disorder)

The prognosis of movement disorders such as RLS and PLMD is usually good and gets controlled with appropriate treatment. Like most other sleep disorders, finding the appropriate treatment of the symptoms and dosage of the medication may take time. According to experts, most people need medication, lifestyle changes, and exercise to alleviate the sensations of restless legs syndrome.

Sleep Terror

The prognosis of childhood disorders such as sleep terrors and sleep walking is good and in most children the symptoms disappear with the onset of adolescence. However, the prognosis of sleep terror that happens once a person enters adulthood is poorer, as the disorder tends to be chronic.

Sleep talking or Somniloquy: Prognosis of this sleep disorder is good and it is a harmless disorder.

If you think you have symptoms suggestive of a sleep disorder, consult a sleep specialist. The sleep specialist will evaluate you and recommend treatment if necessary. The prognosis for sleep disorders is not only dependent on the type of disorder but also the time at which the therapy has been initiated and your compliance with therapy.

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