2010, Number 2
Sleep-related eating disorder: A cause of obesity
Botebol-Benhamou G, Aguilar-Andújar M, Díaz-Ruiz R, Caballero-Martínez M, Jiménez-Hernández MD
Language: Spanish
References: 10
Page: 103-107
PDF size: 188.11 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Sleep-related eating disorder is a heterogeneous syndrome combining characteristics of both, eating and sleep disorders. Recurrent episodes of compulsive desire to smoke and eat during nocturnal awakenings have been reported. These episodes can contribute to the increase of body mass index (BMI) and the development of obesity. This disorder has a comorbidity of weight gain, non-refreshing sleep, depression and morning anorexia. In these patients videopolysomnographic (video-PSG) recordings show the coexistence of parasomnias, sleep apnea, periodic limb movements during sleep, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy and circadian rhythm disorders. Case report: A 40-year-old male with episodes of nocturnal awakenings with irresistible compulsion to eat and smoke to be able to fall asleep, complained of non-refreshing sleep, associated with weight gain. The videopolysomnographic record showed a typical episode as referred before, in which he was conscious and fully aware of his behaviour. The treatment with pramipexol decreased the number of nocturnal episodes. Conclusion: A pharmacologic control in sleep-related eating disorders can contribute to the control of obesity, or at least, the metabolic disorder and prevent adverse health effects. More research in different fields such as sleep disorders, circadian rhythms, endocrinology, eating disorders, psychiatry and obesity is needed.REFERENCES