A Breakdown of Common Sleep Disorders

Nearly a quarter of all Americans suffer from sleep disorders. The most common sleep disorders are: sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy. These conditions prevent people from getting restful, quality sleep and can affect daytime productivity and overall health. Keep reading to learn more about common sleep disorders and their effects.

 

Sleep Apnea

 

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that results in breathing repeatedly stopping and starting throughout the night. There are three main types of sleep apnea:

• Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form where the throat muscles relax and block the airway.
• Central sleep apnea occurs when there is a miscommunication between the brain and the muscles that control breathing.
• Complex sleep apnea is also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea and occurs when someone has both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

 

Insomnia

 

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Insomnia suffers have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Waking up often during the night and having trouble getting back to sleep
• Waking up too early in the morning
• Having unrefreshing sleep
• Having at least one daytime problem such as fatigue; sleepiness; mood problems, concentration issues; accidents at work or while driving due to poor sleep.

  

Restless Leg Syndrome

 

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is classified as a neurological sleep disorder which creates an overwhelming urge to move your limbs, not just legs. Experts aren’t sure what causes RLS, but theorize that it’s hereditary. Symptoms include limb sensations such as:

• Aches
• Burning
• Tingling
• Electric feeling running through limbs
• Feeling of bugs crawling on the legs

 

Narcolepsy

 

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder affecting sleep regulation characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep. It is believed to be caused by abnormalities in the parts of the brain that control REM sleep. Common additional symptoms include:

• Cataplexy: a sudden and transient episode of muscle weakness accompanied by full conscious awareness, typically triggered by emotions such as laughing, crying, or terror.
• Sleep paralysis: An inability to move upon waking or while falling asleep, during which you’re fully alert.
• Hypnagogic hallucinations: imagined sensations that seem very real. They occur as a person is falling asleep and are also referred to as sleep hallucinations. It’s as if you’re dreaming while also alert and aware of your surroundings. They’re often frightening and can include visual, auditory, or tactile sensations.

 

If you experience any of symptoms or are concerned that you may be suffering from a sleep disorder, consult your doctor as these conditions may not go away on their own and can have negative effects on your daily life.

 

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