Insomnia Differential Diagnoses
- Author: Ron A Shatzmiller, MD, MSc; Chief Editor: Selim R Benbadis, MD more...
Diagnostic Considerations
Disorders to consider include the following:
- Central sleep apnea (primary or due to drug or substance)
- Cheyne-Stokes breathing pattern (associated with heart failure)
- High-altitude periodic breathing
- Jet lag disorder
- Medication-related insomnia
Medications associated with insomnia are as follows:
- Central nervous system stimulants (dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate)
- Antihypertensives (alpha-blockers, beta-blockers)
- Respiratory medications (albuterol, theophylline)
- Decongestants (phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine)
- Hormones (corticosteroids, thyroid medications)
- Anti-epileptic drugs (lamotrigine)
- Other noncontrolled substances (caffeine, alcohol, nicotine)
Differential Diagnoses
- Depression
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome
- Periodic Limb Movement Disorder
- Restless Legs Syndrome
- Sleeplessness and Circadian Rhythm Disorder
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