Sleep disorders are some of the most common ailments there are. They come in various forms, prevent us from getting the rest our bodies need to function properly during the daytime, and can result in a host of issues; chronic fatigue, inability to focus, muscle aches, and pains, just to name a few. Seek a health professional’s opinion if you ever experience any of these symptoms.
In the following guide, we’re shedding light on some of the most common types of sleeping disorders along with what you can do to reacquaint your body with quality rest.
Insomnia
Perhaps the most widespread sleep-related disorder, insomnia is believed to affect nearly 1 in 10 adults. This condition is characterized by acute difficulties in falling asleep and experiencing non-restorative sleep. Insomnia can occur as a result of stress, hormonal changes, depression, medical conditions, or even trauma in the case of chronic insomnia. Thankfully, there are several medications and non-medicinal treatments that can help alleviate the condition.
Hypersomnia
In contrast, hypersomnia happens when a person experiences an uncontrollable need to sleep excessively. Sleeping at least 10 to 12 hours per night and daytime sleepiness are the common symptoms of hypersomnia. Narcolepsy falls under this type of disorder, whereby an individual can fall asleep at any time. This can prevent them from leading a normal life and attending to their responsibilities. Patients will usually be prescribed stimulant and antidepressant drugs to bring back a normal sleeping routine.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
If you’ve ever experienced shortness of breath while sleeping, you might suffer from sleep apnea. This sleep disorder occurs when a patient’s upper airways are blocked, making breathing very difficult and sometimes causing a person to wake up in panic gasping for air. In any case, there are several therapies and products for dealing with sleep apnea effectively, including CPAP machines, oral devices, diet, or surgery. Sleep apnea is quite common among those who smoke or are prone to obesity and high blood pressure.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Quite common in the elderly, restless leg syndrome is a neurological disorder where a person feels the need to move their legs while sleeping. RLS is accompanied by a number of unpleasant sensations including burning, tingling, and aches in the lower limbs. Naturally, this can make it hard to fall asleep and result in poor quality rest. RLS can be caused by iron deficiency or being overweight and is generally treated with an iron replacement or prescription medicines.
Circadian Rhythm Disorders
Going to bed and waking up at regular hours comprises a fundamental aspect of good sleep hygiene. However, some people’s internal biological clock (the circadian rhythm) may be out of sync, causing them to have no fixed sleeping hours and suffer from hypersomnia. Blindness, jet lag, or working in shifts can be the root of this condition. Patients with circadian rhythm disorders will typically be prescribed melatonin supplements and other sleep aids, along with properly timed light exposure and sleep hygiene education.
Parasomnias
This class of sleep disorders encompasses a wide range of disturbances, including nightmares, night terrors, sleepwalking and talking, bedwetting, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and many more. These can hinder both sleep quality and quantity. Parasomnias (literally, “around sleep”), are usually caused by psychological conditions such as excessive stress, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, or even underlying medical conditions. If you experience these symptoms vividly and regularly, consulting a specialized Doctor will ensure you get the treatment you need to alleviate the condition.
REM Sleep Behavior Disorders
The rapid eye movement phase is a natural state during sleep characterized by rapid and random eye movements, paralysis (loss of muscle tone), and a spike in blood pressure. This is the time when the brain is the most active, making us dream. People suffering from REM disorders experience partially absent or inexistent paralysis, which causes them to act out their dreams. While the precise diagnosis remains unknown, melatonin and clonazepam-based treatments have proven effective in remedying this disorder.
Snoring
Last but not least, snoring may very well prevent you, and others around you, from enjoying a good night’s rest. It’s usually caused when air passes through the relaxed muscles of the throat, emitting hoarse sounds. Everybody snores from time to time, but excessive snoring can be a symptom of something else. Try switching positions, using a nasal strip, or correcting any bone discrepancy with a quick surgery.
As we’ve seen, there are a multitude of disorders that can make sleeping a nightmare. It’s not uncommon for people to experience more than one at a time, either. So, to remedy these common issues, conduct some online research, talk to your pharmacist, and consult with a medical professional to get a tailored and effective treatment.