Confusional arousals
ICD-10 G47.51 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of confusional arousals.
Confusional arousals are a type of parasomnia characterized by episodes of confusion and disorientation upon awakening, typically occurring during the transition from sleep to wakefulness. These episodes are most commonly seen in children but can also occur in adults. Patients may exhibit behaviors such as sitting up in bed, mumbling, or appearing dazed, and they often have no recollection of the event upon full awakening. Confusional arousals can be triggered by sleep deprivation, irregular sleep schedules, or stress. They are distinct from other sleep disorders such as sleepwalking or night terrors, as the individual is not fully awake and may not respond to external stimuli. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, often requiring a thorough sleep history and, in some cases, polysomnography to rule out other sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy. Treatment may involve improving sleep hygiene, addressing underlying stressors, or, in severe cases, medication. Understanding confusional arousals is crucial for differentiating them from other sleep disorders and ensuring appropriate management.
Comprehensive sleep history, results from sleep studies, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with confusion upon awakening, especially after sleep deprivation.
Consideration of comorbid sleep disorders and their impact on treatment.
Neurological assessments, history of sleep disturbances, and any relevant imaging studies.
Patients with neurological conditions presenting with sleep disturbances.
Differentiating between primary sleep disorders and neurological conditions affecting sleep.
When a sleep study is performed to evaluate the patient's sleep patterns and rule out other disorders.
Document the indications for the sleep study and the results.
Sleep specialists should ensure comprehensive reporting of findings.
Confusional arousals are episodes of confusion and disorientation that occur upon awakening, typically during transitions from sleep to wakefulness. They are characterized by a lack of awareness and recollection of the event.
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on patient history and observation of episodes. Polysomnography may be used to rule out other sleep disorders.
Treatment may involve improving sleep hygiene, addressing stressors, and in some cases, medication to manage symptoms.
