Sleep Disturbance in ME/CFS

Sleep disturbences were the topic of the lecture by Dr. Veauthier. In the case of a sleep diagnosis of ME/CFS patients, taking account of the patient’s medical history is obligatory. There often is a sleep measurement at home, optionally also via a sleep diary or an examination in the sleep laboratory. In a study of 64 ME/CFS patients, only four people did not meet diagnostic criteria for a sleep disorder. Insomnia was the most common, followed by sleep apnea. Sleepwalking or restless leg syndrome were less common. Also, shifted sleep phases should not be overlooked. Sleep disorders should be treated based on the applicable diagnostic criteria. If necessary, a referral to sleep medicine can also be made. Future research should address whether treating sleep disorders improves other ME/CFS symptoms.