Research has shown that as many as 70 million Americans may be affected by chronic sleep loss or disorders. For many people, it is a chronic, nightly problem that can affect daytime behavior, including work activities, school and relationships. In addition, a sleep disorder can make some medical conditions worse or even lead to other medical problems.
Common Sleep Disorders
- Circadian Rhythm
- Disorders
- Excessive Sleepiness
- Insomnia
- Narcolepsy
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Parasomnias
- Periodic Limb
- Movement Disorders
- Restless Leg Syndrome
Sleep Disorder Symptoms
If you're experiencing one of more of the following symptoms, talk with your primary care physician. You may need to undergo a sleep study.
- Excessive sleepiness or fatigue during the day
- Difficulty sleeping, including trouble falling asleep, waking frequently during the night, waking too early, not being able to fall back asleep or waking unrefreshed
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing or gasping for breath during sleep
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Irritability or depression
- Morning headaches
- Nighttime leg discomfort or movement of your arms and legs while you sleep
- Weakness or loss of muscle strength, often in response to strong emotion
- Sleepwalking or sleep talking
- Hypertension/high blood pressure
Sleep Disorder Causes
- Lifestyle factors, including eating, drinking and exercise habits
- Environmental factors (noise, bedding and interruptions by children or pets)
- Shift work and jet lag
- Certain medications
- Psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety and stress
- Certain medical problems, such as high blood pressure, pain, acid reflux, enlarged prostate and asthma
- Hormonal factors
- Melatonin levels