Brain Health
Sleep and Brain Health
Sleep affects nearly every neurological complaint. Untreated sleep apnea contributes to cognitive complaints, hypertension and stroke risk. Sleep loss is one of the most reliable migraine and seizure triggers. Reviewing sleep is a routine part of neurological evaluation.
Sleep symptoms worth reporting
- Loud snoring, gasping or witnessed pauses in breathing
- Waking unrefreshed or daytime sleepiness
- Acting out dreams, shouting or striking out during sleep
- Restless, uncomfortable legs at night
- Frequent awakening or early morning headache
- Long-standing difficulty falling or staying asleep
Why it matters
Treating obstructive sleep apnea can improve attention, memory complaints, daytime function, blood pressure and headache frequency. Acting out dreams may indicate REM sleep behavior disorder, which is relevant to Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia and should be evaluated.
In epilepsy, consistent sleep is part of seizure control. In migraine, regular sleep and wake times are among the most effective non-medication measures.
Practical sleep measures
- Consistent bed and wake times, including weekends
- Limiting alcohol, which fragments sleep
- Reducing late-day caffeine
- Treating nasal congestion and reflux when relevant
- Cognitive behavioral approaches for chronic insomnia before sedatives
- Reviewing medications that impair sleep or worsen cognition
Frequently asked questions
- Can sleep apnea cause memory problems?
- Untreated sleep apnea commonly contributes to attention and memory complaints and is one of the treatable contributors looked for during a memory evaluation.
- Should sleeping pills be used long term?
- Many sedatives worsen cognition, balance and fall risk, particularly in older adults. Behavioral treatment for insomnia is preferred, and medication decisions are individualized.
Request a Neurology Appointment
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment," or call 815-337-7100 to schedule. Our office will follow up to confirm your evaluation.
In-person visits and televisits (telehealth) are both available.
What happens after you text
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment." Our office calls you back to schedule — you do not need to fill out a form.
When you'll hear back
Texts and calls received during office hours are typically returned the same business day. You can also call 815-337-7100 directly.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
Please do not send urgent or emergency medical information by text. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention. Please avoid sending sensitive medical information by ordinary SMS unless instructed otherwise.