Common sleep disorders include insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep), sleep apnea (breathing interruptions during sleep), and narcolepsy (excessive daytime sleepiness). Symptoms vary, but treatments may involve therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes such as improving sleep hygiene and creating a consistent sleep schedule.
Here are some common sleep disorders, their symptoms, and treatments:
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder. It is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. Symptoms of insomnia include:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that can help you identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that are contributing to your insomnia.
Medication: Medication may be prescribed if other treatments are not effective.
Snoring
Gasping for air during sleep
Waking up feeling unrested
Morning headaches
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Treatment for RLS may include:
Lifestyle changes: This may include avoiding caffeine and alcohol, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Medication: Medication may be prescribed to relieve symptoms and improve sleep quality.
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of sleep. Symptoms of narcolepsy include:
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Sudden, uncontrollable episodes of sleep
Cataplexy (a sudden loss of muscle control triggered by strong emotions)
Sleep paralysis (an inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep)
Hypnagogic hallucinations (dream-like images or sensations experienced when falling asleep) and sleep disorders. If you are experiencing sleep problems, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help to diagnose the underlying cause of your sleep problems and recommend the best course of treatment.