Sleep in Epilepsy.

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2013-07
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Abstract
The relationship between sleep and epilepsy is bidirectional. While certain types of seizures occur almost exclusively during sleep, sleep deprivation can precipitate seizures and can activate interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) in the electroencephalogram (EEG). While non-rapid eye movement sleep is an activator of IEDs and seizures, rapid eye movement sleep suppresses them. Nocturnal seizures need to be distinguished from parasomnias. Epileptic seizures and IEDs result in changes of sleep architecture, while antiepileptic drugs have variable effect on sleep and wakefulness. Nearly one-third of patients with epilepsy complain day time somnolence. In addition to nocturnal seizures and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), associated sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea and restless leg syndromes might be responsible for daytime sleepiness in persons with epilepsy.
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Radhakrishnan Kurupth. Sleep in Epilepsy. Annals of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (India). 2013 Jul-Dec; 49(3&4): 161-168.