Insomnia
o This is the most common sleep disorder. It is characterized by the inability to fall asleep at night, or waking up earlier than you would like, resulting in an insufficient amount of sleep. Those suffering from insomnia do not feel that they have rested after their sleep. As a result, they may feel daytime fatigue and tiredness and are easily irritable, restless as well as having feelings of anxiety and hence stress.
Sleep Apnea
o Obstructive Sleep Apnea is characterized by obstruction of the upper airway during sleep, causing the cessation of breathing for 30 to 90 seconds at a time. This can happen as many as 600
times every night! The pauses in breathing are alternated by loud snores or brief gasps for air and often with movements of the whole body. People who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea are extremely sleep-deprived and often experience excessive
sleepiness during the day.
Snoring
o About 40 percent of adults snore. Snoring occurs when your airway narrows to the extent that it causes the walls of your throat to vibrate as you breathe. If the airway narrows
completely, breathing may stop altogether, as in Sleep Apnea, causing you to gasp for air and wake up temporarily. While simple snoring is not life-threatening, it can severely disrupt the sleep of your partner and may be worth treating.
Narcolepsy
Treatment of Sleep Apnea Page 10 of 49
o Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder caused by the brain sending sleep-inducing signals resulting in recurring episodes of unavoidable sleep - literally, of "sleep attacks." These attacks can occur unpredictably at times that may not be appropriate to sleep such as while driving, having a conversation or eating.
Restless Legs Syndrome
o This sleep disorder causes unpleasant aching, tingling or itching sensations shortly before or just after a person gets into bed. This causes an irresistible urge to move the legs. The person may experience pain and discomfort. Having Restless Legs Syndrome or RLS may often lead to involuntary limb movements not only during sleep but possibly during the day as well. The sufferer may feel depressed and intensely anxious.
Sleep Walking
o Sleep Walking, or somnambulism, is the experience in which the brain remains partially asleep but the body is capable of movement and activity. This happens usually one to two hours after falling asleep. Sleepwalking can be triggered by emotional upsets, fever or sleep deprivation.