Abstract
Background. Sleep disorders are common but often underestimated manifestations of multiple sclerosis (MS), contributing to fatigue, cognitive decline, anxiety, depression, and impaired quality of life.
Objective. To evaluate the prevalence and structure of sleep disorders in patients with MS and their association with psychological factors.
Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional observational study included 50 patients with confirmed MS diagnosis (27 with relapsing-remitting, 15 with secondary progressive, and 8 with primary progressive forms). Validated questionnaires were used: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), STOP-BANG questionnaire, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).
Results. Poor sleep quality (PSQI>5) was found in 92% of patients. The most common sleep disturbances were insomnia (44%), elevated risk of obstructive sleep apnea (24%), excessive daytime sleepiness (32%), restless legs syndrome (14%), and frequent nocturnal awakenings (64%). No significant differences in the prevalence of sleep disorders were observed between MS subtypes. Patients with poor sleep reported higher anxiety and depression scores on the HADS.
Conclusion. Sleep disorders are highly prevalent in MS and are associated with psychological symptoms. Systematic screening using validated questionnaires is necessary for timely diagnosis and for incorporating sleep management into comprehensive MS care.
Keywords: multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, daytime sleepiness, depression, anxiety.
For citation:Pozhidaeva Yu.A., Ermolenko N.A., Shramkova P.A. Structure and prevalence of sleep disorders in patients with multiple sclerosis. Clinical review for general practice. 2026; 7 (3): 23–26 (In Russ.). DOI: 10.47407/kr2026.7.3.00788
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