Sleep disorders are conditions that affect the quality, timing, and amount of sleep, leading to daytime distress and impaired functioning. Here are common types of sleep disorders and their signs to watch for:
- Insomnia
Signs:
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Waking up too early and not being able to get back to sleep
- Feeling tired upon waking
- Irritability, depression, or anxiety
- Poor concentration or memory
- Sleep Apnea (Obstructive and Central)
Signs:
- Loud snoring
- Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Signs:
- Urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations
- Symptoms worsen in the evening or at night
- Temporary relief from movement, like walking or stretching
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Narcolepsy
Signs:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), often triggered by emotions
- Sleep paralysis (unable to move upon waking or falling asleep)
- Hallucinations when falling asleep or waking
- Circadian Rhythm Disorders (e.g., Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome)
Signs:
- Inability to fall asleep and wake up at conventional times
- Difficulty functioning during desired hours
- Normal sleep quality and duration when allowed to follow personal rhythm
- Parasomnias (e.g., Sleepwalking, Night Terrors)
Signs:
- Unusual behaviors during sleep such as walking, talking, or eating
- Night terrors (screaming, intense fear during non-REM sleep)
- Acting out dreams (REM Sleep Behavior Disorder)
When to See a Doctor:
- Persistent problems falling or staying asleep
- Loud snoring with pauses in breathing
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Unusual behaviors during sleep
- Poor concentration, mood changes, or reduced performance
