Sleep Disorders and Epilepsy

Abstract

Complex interplay and reciprocal interactions between sleep and epilepsy have been known for centuries. However, newer technologies and in-depth studies have provided us with better understanding of this relationship. Nocturnal seizures can interrupt sleep, while a number of factors, including antiepileptic drugs and sleep disorders, can aggravate seizures. Interestingly, different epileptic syndromes may trigger increase in seizure frequency at a certain phases of the sleep-wake cycle, while others may not show any correlation with these phases. We aim to provide an overview of the interactions between sleep and epilepsy, and provide better understanding how knowledge of the relationship between these two conditions can help more effective management of both disorders.