Insomnia refers to the persistent difficulty with getting to sleep, maintaining sleep, or quality of sleep that occurs despite adequate opportunity and circumstances for sleep and results in impaired daytime functioning. It can often be a sign of an underlying psychological or physical condition.

In this episode of the Clinical Update podcast, MIMS Learning editors Dawn and Pat review how insomnia should be assessed in primary care and how it should be managed. They also discuss related sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and night sweats.

Given sleep disorders can lead to sleep deprivation and daytime sleepiness, the editors also look at DVLA regulations on driving with a sleep disorder.

Educational objectives

After listening to this podcast, healthcare professionals should be more able to:

• Discuss the types of insomnia
• Recall pharmacological options for treating insomnia
• Review the risk factors for OSA
• Appreciate the role of the GP in supporting patients with suspected OSA
• Investigate the possible causes of night sweats

You can access the website version of this podcast, along with a list of key learning points, on MIMS Learning - and make notes for your appraisal. MIMS Learning offers hundreds of hours of CPD for healthcare professionals, along with a handy CPD organiser.

Please note: this podcast is presented by medical editors and discusses educational content written or presented by doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals on the MIMS Learning website and at live events.

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