Sleep Matters - 2023 Vol 14 No 2

Introduction

Sleep disorders and cognitive decline

Much has been written about the risk of dementia induced by benzodiazepine - like hypnotics and many patients will start their consultation with “I’m afraid that taking sleeping tablets will cause dementia”. Dr Google will supply the confirmatory evidence without the negative studies. The evidence is certainly not that clear and confused by the presence of insomnia itself.

The role of the family physician in managing patients on CPAP

Nasal continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP) machines are the recommended treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. This severity of apnea occurs when there are more than 15 apneas and/or hypopneas per hour of sleep. Apneas are defined as an 80% to complete reduction in airflow caused by collapse of the airway in the pharyngeal area usually at the site of the palate (uvula) or the tongue as the jaw moves backwards.

The myths of insomnia

This article tries to dispel some of the myths which patients often come up with when you ask them about their sleep. Patients with insomnia are well known to have dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes and managing those is an important part of their treatment.