What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Dyssomnia (Not Otherwise Specified)
• Dyssomnia, NOS
• Dyssomnia, Not Otherwise Specified

What is Dyssomnia (NOS)? (Definition/Background Information)

• Dyssomnia (NOS) is characterized by a disturbance in the amount, quantity, or timing of sleep. In many cases, it affects older adults
• A sleep disorder that does not fulfill the diagnostic criteria of any one specific category of Dyssomnia Disorder is classified as Dyssomnia, Not Otherwise Specified (or Dyssomnia, NOS)
• The most common disorders that fall under Dyssomnia (NOS) include the following:
  • Restless leg syndrome (RLS): It is an irresistible urge to move the legs, as well as an uncomfortable creeping or crawling sensation in the legs
  • Periodic limb movements (PLM): It is the repeated low-amplitude jerking of the limbs, focused mostly in the lower extremities of the body
• Dyssomnia (NOS) is caused due to a combination of biological and environmental factors such as family history and an uncomfortable sleep environment
• The condition can result in disrupted sleep, feeling too tired during the day, and jerky leg movements during sleep. The symptoms may also cause other health and social issues including poor performance at schools or offices
• The treatment for Dyssomnia (NOS) primarily involves psychotherapy and medication to improve sleep habits and address the associated symptoms
• The prognosis is generally good; most affected individuals are able to return to their regular sleep patterns following an adequate treatment of Dyssomnia (NOS)

Who gets Dyssomnia (NOS)? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• It is reported that Dyssomnia (NOS) is prevalent in 5-10% of the global population
• Although this condition most commonly occurs in older individuals, it can develop at any age
• Dyssomnia (NOS) is equally prevalent in both males and females
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Dyssomnia (NOS)? (Predisposing Factors)

Some known risk factors for Dyssomnia (NOS) include:

• Being middle aged or older adult
• A family history of this condition (genetic factors)
• Stress, due to various causes
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 
• Use of certain medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Substance use or abuse - alcohol and/or drugs
• Pregnancy

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Dyssomnia (NOS)? (Etiology)

Dyssomnia (NOS) is caused by a combination of biological and environmental factors as listed below: 

• Biological factors:
  • A positive family history of the condition
  • Having another sleep disorder
  • Certain brain disorders
  • Pre-existing mental health disorders
• Environmental factors:
  • Bad sleeping habits
  • Excessive noise and excessive light during sleeping
  • Stress, from various factors
  • Use of certain medications: Some examples include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), amphetamines, and anticonvulsants
  • Sudden discontinuation of some medications (such as sleeping aid medicines)
  • Substance use - alcohol and drugs

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Dyssomnia (NOS)?

Some signs and symptoms of Dyssomnia (NOS) may include the following:

• Inability to fall asleep
• Waking up often at night
• Excessive tiredness during the daytime
• Excessive sleepiness during the day
• Uncomfortable feeling in the legs before or after falling asleep, prompting movement to rid oneself of the feeling
• Jerking movements of the legs, especially while asleep, thus waking up the affected individual and affecting their sleep

How is Dyssomnia (NOS) Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Dyssomnia (NOS) is made based on the basis of information from the following:

• Complete physical evaluation
• Comprehensive analysis of medical history
• Thorough psychiatric assessment
• Extensive conversation about sleep history
• Assessment of symptoms based on the criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
• Differential diagnosis to rule out other disorders that may present similar signs and symptoms

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Dyssomnia (NOS)?

Dyssomnia (NOS) may lead to the following complications:

• Daytime laziness and lack of concentration at work and school
• Sleeping at inappropriate times that may result in accidents (such as while driving or operating machinery)
• Physical health problems including:
  • Headaches
  • General body pain
• Impaired social interaction
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

How is Dyssomnia (NOS) Treated?

The following treatment methods may be employed for Dyssomnia (NOS):

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help change negative and dysfunctional thought patterns, feelings, and behaviors
• Medication to alter sleep cycles, increase alertness during the day, and remove jitteriness and anxious behavior
• Exercise to remove abnormal feelings of the limbs
• Meditation and relaxation methods

How can Dyssomnia (NOS) be Prevented?

The following methods may aid in the prevention or onset of Dyssomnia (NOS):

• Avoiding substance use such as alcohol and drugs
• Avoiding prolonged daytime naps
• Avoiding rigorous activity before bedtime
• Avoiding spicy food before bed
• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
• Maintaining a comfortable sleep environment that is cool and dark
• Practicing calming techniques before bed, such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises

What is the Prognosis of Dyssomnia (NOS)? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Dyssomnia (NOS) is typically good; most individuals outgrow their symptoms with steady treatment
• Individuals with lasting symptoms may require a more consistent and sustained treatment until their sleep is regulated and comes back to normalcy
• With a combination of treatment and support from loved ones, the affected individuals can overcome this condition and lead a healthy life

Additions and Relevant Useful Information for Dyssomnia (NOS):

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/