Excessive daytime sleepiness among depressed patients.

BACKGROUND

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) has been reported among depressed patients in many populations. Many depressed patients seek medical attention partly to deal with EDS, but this sleep disorder is often overlooked in clinical practice.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of EDS among depressed patients and determine its relationship with the severity of depression.

METHODS

Sixty-seven patients diagnosed with depressive episode took part in the study. The severity of depression was rated using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). EDS was evaluated using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS).

RESULTS

The mean ESS score was 9.2 (SD = 2.8). EDS, defined as an ESS score ≥ 10, was present in 44.8% of the depressed patients. The mean score on the HDRS was 14.8 (SD = 3.6), representing the mild-moderate depression range. ESS scores correlated highly and positively (r=0.69, p=0.000) with scores on the HDRS.

CONCLUSION

In the light of the high prevalence of EDS among depressed patients and its undesirable consequences, it is suggested that daytime sleepiness be evaluated in depressed patients.