Assessment and treatment of disturbed sleep in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects 3-5% of children in the USA, and is commonly accompanied by disrupted sleep in the form of insomnia, restless sleep or excessive daytime tiredness. In addition, daytime inattention and hyperactivity which mimicks attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can result from intrinsic sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea or periodic limb movement disorder. In most cases, the correct clinical evaluation permits appropriate diagnosis and management. Current research investigating the relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and sleep, as well as general precepts of clinical assessment and treatment are reviewed.