Multipronged Treatment of Insomnia - Outcomes from an Apex Sleep Disorders Clinic in India.

Abstract

Introduction:A large proportion of the population suffers from disturbed sleep and a majority of these present to clinicians with the complaint of insomnia. Many of these people possibly suffer from other primary sleep disorders such as sleep apnea; however, insomnia disorder also remains an extremely common condition directly impacting the quality of life and work efficiency of affected people. While a number of approaches are used for treatment by many clinicians, a much smaller percentage can seek help from specialty sleep clinics. Since very little data are available regarding the effectiveness of treatment offered, this retrospective study aims at examining the outcome of chronic insomnia patients attending to a quaternary care specialty sleep center.Methods:Consecutive patients with the presenting complaint of and diagnosis of insomnia, during a study period of 2 years between 2013 and 2015, were identified and analyzed. Patients were classified based on the comorbidity and types of treatment received. Life stressors were also identified and analyzed. Outcomes were reviewed for those who had follow-up data available.Results:Based on the defined inclusion criteria, 102 patients could be analyzed. Among these, at least 3-month follow-up was available for 48 patients. It was observed that among patients for whom at least 3-month follow-up was available, 91.4% (43/48) showed a good response to treatment with physician-administered cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia along with treatment for comorbid conditions.Conclusion:With correct diagnostic classification, as well as appropriate and easily available treatment strategies, excellent treatment outcomes are observed at specialty sleep clinics.