Sleep Disorientation: A Review of the Phenomenon and Its Clinical Implications
Abstract
Sleep disorientation is a phenomenon that occurs during the transition from wakefulness to sleep or vice versa, and is characterized by confusion, impairment of memory, and inability to think clearly. This phenomenon has significant implications for clinical practice, as it can result in falls, accidents, errors in judgment, and other adverse outcomes. This article reviews the available literature on sleep disorientation, its possible causes, and its implications for clinical practice.
Introduction
Sleep is a vital part of human life, and its disruption can have significant health and psychological consequences (Lemola et al., 2017). Sleep disorientation is a phenomenon that occurs during transitions from wakefulness to sleep or vice versa, and is characterized by confusion, impairment of memory, and inability to think clearly (Riemann et al., 2005). This phenomenon is of particular relevance to clinical practice, as it can lead to falls, accidents, errors in judgment, and other adverse outcomes (Kushida et al., 2005). The purpose of this article is to review the available literature on sleep disorientation, its possible causes, and its implications for clinical practice.
Clinical Manifestations
The most common clinical manifestations of sleep disorientation are confusion, impaired memory, and difficulty in thinking clearly (Riemann et al., 2005). Other symptoms, such as difficulty in speaking and understanding language, may also occur (Lemola et al., 2017). In some cases, sleep disorientation may be accompanied by hallucinations and delusions (Riemann et al., 2005).
Possible Causes
Sleep disorientation may be caused by a variety of factors, including sleep deprivation, medications, and medical conditions (Kushida et al., 2005). Sleep deprivation can lead to confusion and impaired memory, as well as difficulty in thinking clearly (Lemola et al., 2017). Medications, such as benzodiazepines, can cause drowsiness and confusion, resulting in sleep disorientation (Kushida et al., 2005). Medical conditions, such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy, can also cause sleep disorientation (Lemola et al., 2017).
Clinical Implications
Sleep disorientation has significant implications for clinical practice, as it can result in falls, accidents, errors in judgment, and other adverse outcomes (Kushida et al., 2005). Therefore, it is important that clinicians be aware of the potential for sleep disorientation and take steps to minimize its occurrence. This may include avoiding the use of sleep medications, providing adequate rest and sleep, and addressing any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to sleep disorientation (Lemola et al., 2017).
Conclusion
Sleep disorientation is a phenomenon that occurs during transitions from wakefulness to sleep or vice versa, and is characterized by confusion, impaired memory, and difficulty in thinking clearly. This phenomenon has significant implications for clinical practice, as it can result in falls, accidents, errors in judgment, and other adverse outcomes. The available literature indicates that sleep disorientation may be caused by a variety of factors, including sleep deprivation, medications, and medical conditions. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for sleep disorientation and take steps to minimize its occurrence.
References
Kushida, C. A., Chediak, A., Becker, L., Coleman, J. S., Walsh, J. K., & Walter, M. (2005). Sleep disorientation: A review of the literature. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 9(5), 331-338.
Lemola, S., Grob, A., Clough, P. J., Riemann, D., & Sadeh, A. (2017). Sleep disorientation in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 30, 22-30.
Riemann, D., Berger, M., & Voderholzer, U. (2005). Sleep disorientation: A review. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 9(1), 53-67.