Excessive daytime sleepiness in patients with chronic kidney disease undergone hemodialysis

Abstract

Introduction: Approximately 80% of patients with chronic kidney disease complain about sleep disorders, which is a much higher percentage than in the general population. Excessive daytime sleepiness is the third most frequent complaint in these patients, and it is significantly associated with a higher risk of sleep apnea. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of daytime sleepiness in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) who were undergoing diurnal hemodialysis. Materials and methods: The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) was applied to patients with ESRD who underwent diurnal hemodialysis in the Centro de Nefrologia da Zona Norte in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Results: A total of 168 patients were included in the study. According to the ESS, 31% presented with a mild propensity to sleep, 22% with a moderate propensity, and 17% with a severe propensity. Conclusion: Our study concluded that 70% of the sample of patients with ESRD who were undergoing hemodialysis presented with a propensity to sleep in inappropriate circumstances on the ESS. When excessive daytime sleepiness is associated with sleep apnea and other comorbidities, it is essential to carefully assess patients’ complaints.