Prevalence, Impact and Influencing Factors of Sleep Disturbances in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Review of Literature

Abstract

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), comprising Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), is a chronic inflammatory condition that can be induced and exacerbated by environmental factors such as sleep disorders. Sleep disturbances are increasingly recognized as both a symptom and risk factor for poor outcomes in IBD, influencing disease progression through immune system dysregulation. This literature review assesses the prevalence and risk factors for sleep disorders among IBD patients. Studies included span from 2011 to 2024, with sample sizes ranging from 34 to 10,634 participants.

The prevalence of poor sleep quality is notably high, ranging from 32.2% to 82%, with active disease being a significant predictor. For instance, 77% of patients with active IBD and 49% in remission reported poor sleep quality, with similar findings across several studies. Depression, anxiety, and restless legs syndrome were identified as psychological and clinical risk factors. Moreover, elevated inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and certain adipokine profiles were associated with poor sleep quality. Socio-cultural factors, including gender, age, and work-related shifts, also influenced sleep disturbances in IBD patients. While biological therapies like anti-TNF showed improvements in sleep, no significant differences were noted between other treatment modalities.

The findings underscore the complex interplay between sleep quality, disease activity, and psychological well-being in IBD patients, highlighting sleep disturbances as a critical factor in disease management. Further research is needed to explore the impact of treatment interventions on sleep and to develop holistic care strategies for IBD patients.