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ICD-10 code: F51.03

Disease category: F51.0: Insomnia not due to a substance or known physiological condition

Understanding Paradoxical Insomnia: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Paradoxical insomnia, also known as sleep state misperception or subjective insomnia, is a type of sleep disorder that affects a person's ability to accurately perceive how much sleep they are getting.

Unlike other forms of insomnia where a person has difficulty falling or staying asleep, those with paradoxical insomnia believe they are not sleeping despite evidence to the contrary. They may feel as though they have been awake all night, but in reality, they have slept for several hours.

Causes of Paradoxical Insomnia

The exact cause of paradoxical insomnia is not known, but it is believed to be related to an imbalance in the brain's sleep-wake cycle. This can be caused by stress, anxiety, depression, medications, or other underlying medical conditions.

Symptoms of Paradoxical Insomnia

The primary symptom of paradoxical insomnia is the belief that one is not sleeping despite evidence to the contrary. This can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and fatigue during the day. Other symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, irritability, and mood swings.

Diagnosis of Paradoxical Insomnia

A diagnosis of paradoxical insomnia is typically made based on the patient's reported symptoms and sleep patterns. A sleep study may be conducted to rule out other sleep disorders, but it is not necessary for a diagnosis.

  1. If you suspect you may have paradoxical insomnia, keep a sleep diary to track your sleep patterns and symptoms.
  2. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and discuss any underlying medical conditions or medications that may be contributing to your symptoms.
  3. Avoid relying on sleep aids or alcohol to help you sleep as they can exacerbate the problem.

In conclusion, paradoxical insomnia is a unique type of sleep disorder that can be frustrating and debilitating for those who suffer from it. Understanding the causes and symptoms of this condition is an important first step in finding relief and improving overall sleep quality.

Treatment of Paradoxical insomnia:

Treatment Options for Paradoxical Insomnia

Paradoxical insomnia, also known as sleep state misperception, is a condition in which a person believes they are not getting enough sleep, despite evidence to the contrary. This can lead to anxiety, depression, and other health problems. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help manage this condition.

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