Sleep disorders encompass a wide range of conditions disrupting normal sleep patterns. These disorders can cause excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or early awakenings.
Sleep disorders affect the quality, timing, and quantity of sleep. Common examples include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy.
Insomnia: This common disorder involves difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Insomnia can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), often stemming from stress, anxiety, or irregular sleep schedules.
Sleep Apnea: This disorder involves repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. This can lead to loud snoring, gasping for air, and poor sleep quality. The two main types are obstructive sleep apnea (blocked airway) and central sleep apnea (problem with brain's breathing signals).
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): A neurological disorder causing an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Symptoms worsen at night, hindering sleep.
Narcolepsy: This chronic disorder involves excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep paralysis, and sudden sleep episodes.
Common signs of a sleep disorder include:
If you experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional at Endocrine Wellness Institute for diagnosis and treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, therapy, or medication. Quality sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. Don't ignore sleep difficulties; seek help to improve your sleep.