Women are more likely to have sleep-related illnesses than men. However, the diagnosis is frequently missed since the symptoms are often atypical in women. Hormonal cycles and changes during life impact the symptomatology and severity. Women are more likely to have an atypical presentation of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and a higher prevalence of insomnia and restless leg syndrome (RLS). We present the gender-based differences in pathophysiology and presentation of sleep illnesses. We also present the treatment differences to keep in mind while managing sleep illnesses in women. Awareness of these differences can help improve sleep health and overall quality of life in women.
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