Neurológia pre prax 2/2012

Excessive daytime sleepiness in Parkinson‘s disease

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is an important non-motor symptom that decreases the quality of life of patients with Parkinson‘s disease. EDS limits the physical activity, ability to drive motor vehicles, worsens the social interactions and communication. The diagnosis of excessive daytime is based on careful assessment of sleep habits, presence of nocturnal sleep disruptions, complete drug history and in some cases polysomnography. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale provides a useful tool for evaluating the presence and severity of EDS. Appropriate diagnosis of the EDS can lead to timely treatment initiation. Therapy is usually symptomatic and includes certain sleeping habits adjustments, causal therapy is available for some patients. There are studies ongoing that assess the effect of the histamine receptors on EDS.

Keywords: excessive daytime sleepiness, Parkinson‘s disease.