Researchers have found that sleep disorders not only cause daytime fatigue, but also lead to structural changes in brain regions responsible for attention, decision-making, and emotional control.
conditions that prevent the body from getting healthy and sufficient sleep, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and others.
Sleep disorders are generally classified into two main types: the first is known as parasomnia, in which there is a disruption in the sleep stages themselves, and prominent examples include sleepwalking, recurrent nightmares, and night terrors. The second type is called dyssomnia, which is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep without interruption.
To reach these results, a research team conducted a comprehensive analysis of the results of 57 previous studies that relied on brain imaging techniques, compared those with both types of disorders, and then published their findings in the journal Scientific Reports.
The researchers found that cases of parasomnia were associated with changes in an area called the "posterior cingulate cortex" of the brain, an area that plays an important role in motivating behavior, making decisions, and regulating emotions.
Researchers believe these changes may be the reason behind the mood swings and poor emotional control that some people with these conditions complain about.
The study also observed reduced activity in the thalamus, a brain region responsible for processing sensory information, concentration, and abstract thinking, in individuals with both parasomnia and dyssomnia. This decreased activity may explain the impaired attention span and increased susceptibility to injuries, a phenomenon particularly common among older adults with disrupted sleep.
The researchers assert that these structural changes may disrupt interconnected brain networks, negatively impacting human cognitive, emotional, and motivational performance.
Researchers hope these findings will contribute to the development of more accurate diagnostic tools and customized treatments for each type of sleep disorder, as well as the protection of vital brain systems associated with attention, decision-making, and emotional balance.
Dr. Matthew Sutherland, a cognitive neuroscientist at Florida International University, said: "There is an urgent need to understand what is happening in the brain, and this research gives us a more comprehensive picture of how sleep disorders affect its structure and function, and identifies where we should direct our future efforts."
He added: "Given the widespread nature of sleep problems, understanding their brain mechanisms is key to improving therapeutic interventions and providing personalized care for each patient."
