Sleep Disorders

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition in which an obstruction of the airway interrupts breathing and causes awakenings. A person may not realize his or her sleep is being disrupted, but feels very tired during the day, has headaches or is irritable. Sleep apnea is a serious medical problem that can lead to life-threatening illnesses, if not treated, including high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.

Periodic Leg Movements

These are leg twitches that occur while a person sleeps. Periodic leg movements can often be violent and yet the person is rarely aware of them. A person who suffers from this disorder may complain of excessive daytime drowsiness and that he or she doesn't awaken refreshed.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome is characterized by uncomfortable sensations, like aching or cramps, inside the leg that may cause involuntary jerking of the leg during sleep or sometimes while awake.

Insomnia

Insomnia is one of the most common sleep problems and is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Insomnia can be caused by a wide variety of physical and/or psychological problems.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a condition in which excessive daytime sleepiness occurs regardless of the amount of sleep a person got the night before. This disorder may also involve sleep paralysis, terrifying dreams or hallucinations just before falling asleep or upon awakening, and must weakness or paralysis triggered by strong emotions like anger or laughter.

Hypersomnolence

Hypersomnolence is defined as excessive sleepiness or an excessive need for sleep, especially during the day. Treating this condition begins with evaulation of the possible causes.

Symptoms of sleep disorders include:

• Daytime fatigue
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Difficulty staying asleep
• Loud snoring or gasping sounds
• Sleep attacks, loss of muscle control
• Unusual behaviors like sleep walking and sleep terrors