Some individuals know they have a sleeping disorder because they remember waking up at night. Others may not be aware of their problem because it does not fully wake them. People with sleeping disorders often feel tired much of the time or they doze off during the day. In many cases the pattern of sleeplessness has existed for so long that the troubled sleeper assumes everyone feels this way, despite the concerns of friends, family and co-workers.
Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
Difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep
Awakening too early or difficulty awakening
Snoring loudly or being awakened by your own snoring
Awakening with choking or gasping for breath
Breathing interruptions while sleeping
Excessive sleepiness during the day
Sleeping at inappropriate times (while driving, talking, playing, etc.)
Temporary weakness of body or speech muscles occurring with excitement, anger or other strong emotions
Sleep walking, talking or flailing
Nightmares or disturbing dreams
Sleep-related seizures
Repeated leg movements characterized by twitches every 20 to 40 seconds while a person is asleep
Dissatisfaction with the amount or quality of sleep
Treating Sleep Disorders
Effective treatment is available for many patients. A thorough medical evaluation, which includes a sleep questionnaire, is essential before starting treatment. The information is then reviewed by a physician specializing in sleep disorders. Depending on the severity of the diagnosis the physician might schedule you for a polysomnogram, which is a comprehensive, all night testing procedure. There is no pain associated with this procedure and staff will monitor you throughout the testing procedure.
For More Information
For more information or questions on women and sleep disorders, please contact the Sara Lee Center for Women's Health at (336) 718-3780.
