Sex differences in factors associated with daytime sleepiness and insomnia symptoms in persons with epilepsy

In a study of 126 participants, 17.5% experienced excessive daytime sleepiness, while 20.6% reported moderate-to-severe insomnia.

• Excessive daytime sleepiness was measured using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, with an average score of 6.1 ± 4.2.
• Moderate-to-severe insomnia was assessed with the Insomnia Severity Index, resulting in an average score of 7.8 ± 6.4.
• Daytime sleepiness was independently linked to obstructive sleep apnea, a higher antiepileptic drug load, depression, female sex, and nocturnal seizures.
• Insomnia severity was independently associated with depression and anxiety.
• Men showed a connection between sleepiness and obstructive sleep apnea, while women had a link between sleepiness and depression.
• Anxiety was specifically associated with insomnia in women.

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