Parasomnias including the restless legs syndrome

Parasomnias are undesirable motor, verbal, or experiential phenomena arising exclusively or preferentially from the sleep period. These events may conveniently be classified as primary parasomnias (disorders of the sleep state per se), or secondary parasomnias (disorders of other organ systems that manifest themselves Juring sleep). The numerous parasomnias that may present with cardiovascular symptoms are of special interest to pulmonologists. Contrary to popular opinion, most parasomnias are not the manifestation of underlying psychiatric or psychologic conditions, and, importantly, the majority are readily diagnosable and treatable. Further study of these fascinating conditions promises to expand our concept of state declaration.