Somnology
Somnology is a specialized medical discipline that analyses the research, diagnosis and treatment of sleep and wakefulness disorders and irregularities.
It studies a wide range of conditions that can significantly impact a person's quality of life, health, and daytime functioning.
Modern classification of sleep disorders includes over 80 conditions, the most common of which are:
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Insomnia – difficulty falling or staying asleep;
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Sleep-related breathing disorders – interruptions in breathing during sleep;
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Circadian rhythm disorders – misalignment between the biological clock and the external environment;
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Sleep disorders in children and adolescents – such as pediatric apnea, night terrors, and enuresis (bedwetting);
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Abnormal movements during sleep;
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Jet lag and shift work-related sleep disturbances;
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Other sleep disorders – including narcolepsy, bruxism, etc.;
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Parasomnias – unusual behaviors or movements during sleep (e.g., sleepwalking, night terrors).
These and similar conditions can lead to serious health consequences, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, depression, reduced work performance, and more.
Diagnosis of various sleep disorders typically involves:
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Detailed medical history and clinical assessment – a consultation focusing on sleep habits and symptoms;
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Completion of specialized questionnaires – standardized sleep assessment tools (e.g., Epworth Sleepiness Scale, chronotype questionnaires);
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Specific instrumental examinations:
- Polysomnography – a comprehensive overnight study recording multiple physiological parameters during sleep (brain waves, breathing, heart activity, movements); considered the gold standard in sleep medicine;
- Polygraphy – a simplified version of overnight monitoring focusing on breathing and heart function;
- Actigraphy – monitoring of motor activity, useful in insomnia and circadian rhythm disorders.
After the diagnosis is established, an individualized treatment plan is developed, which may include:
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Medication – for insomnia, parasomnias, movement disorders during sleep, and more;
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nCPAP (nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) – for obstructive sleep apnea, providing respiratory support during sleep;
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Sleep hygiene – recommendations to improve the sleep environment and habits;
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Circadian rhythm correction – light therapy, melatonin supplements for biological clock disorders.
Somnology is a dynamically evolving specialty with growing importance in modern medicine. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of sleep disorders significantly improve quality of life and help prevent long-term complications.
For more information regarding consultations with a sleep medicine specialist, please contact your physician or call MC MARKOVS.
