Management of Sleep and Fatigue in Gastrointestinal Patients

Abstract

Sleep is an essential physiologic process, and unfortunately, people with gastrointestinal (GI) conditions are more likely than people in the general population to experience poor sleep quality, sleep disorders, and fatigue. Herein, we present information on common sleep disorders, fatigue, and data on these problems in various GI populations. We also discuss several treatments for sleep concerns and emerging research on the use of these treatments in GI populations. Cases that illustrate the GI/sleep relationship are presented, in addition to guidance for your own practice and cultural considerations.

Keywords: Behavioral sleep medicine; Fatigue; Inflammatory bowel disease; Insomnia; Irritable bowel syndrome; Psychogastroenterology; Sleep disorders.