When you think of sleep disorders most people do not immediately thing of a sleep related eating disorder. Surprisingly, this affects more people that you would think.

This type of eating disorder is basically classified as binge eating while sleep walking. The exact diagnosis and symptoms vary from patient to patient. There are some similar symptoms however:

. These episodes happen only in the night and not during naps.

. These patients seem to go for the higher calorie foods (a few patients will even binge on items that are not food like cleaning supplies)

. This happens repeatedly sometimes multiple times each night.

. They eat the food very fast in ten minutes or less.

. A patient in the middle of these episodes can not be awoken with ease.

. The patient typically does not remember the event.

ingested. Depression can be an issue as a result of the condition. Insomnia can also be a problem. If the patient is a diabetic they can be causing issues with their diabetes by this behavior. The affects of this disorder are long lasting and can make it very difficult for patients to live a normal life. Patients can avoid relationships and sink into depression compounding the issues.

The cause of this unusual disorder is not really clear. It is suggested that some responsibility may be related to some insomnia medications. Through research and sleep studies researchers continue to try and get to the bottom of the cause of this disorder.

In the meantime, the disorder is generally treated with a combination of change in sleep atmosphere making it more appealing for sleep, creating a safer kitchen and sleep environment to help reduce injuries and some prescription medications have been found to be helpful but are still experimental. If you or someone you know believes they have an issue similar to this, contact your physician immediately for help. Your issues may seem very strange but be assured that you are not alone. There is help available.