Recommended Sleep Times Duration
Types of Sleep Disorders
INSOMNIA
Insomnia refers to the inability to fall asleep or to remain asleep. It can be caused by jet lag, stress and anxiety, hormones, or digestive problems. It may also be a symptom of another condition.
SLEEP APNEA
Feeling panic, fear and uneasiness
Nightmares
Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences
PARASOMNIAS
Parasomnias are a class of sleep disorders that cause abnormal movements and behaviors during sleep. They include sleepwalking, sleep talking, groaning, nightmares, bedwetting, teeth grinding or jaw clenching
RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is an overwhelming need to move the legs. This urge is sometimes accompanied by a tingling sensation in the legs. While these symptoms can occur during the day, they are most prevalent at night.
NARCOLEPSY
Narcolepsy is characterized by “sleep attacks” that occur while awake. This means that you will suddenly feel extremely tired and fall asleep without warning.
The disorder can also cause sleep paralysis, which may make you physically unable to move right after waking up.
SLEEP APNEA
Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. This is a serious medical condition that causes the body to take in less oxygen. It can also cause you to wake up during the night.
Treatment Options
Depending on the type of sleep disorder you have, your doctor may recommend a medical treatment that can include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Sleeping pills or melatonin supplements
Allergy or cold medication
Medications for underlying health issues
An assistive breathing device or surgery (usually for sleep apnea)
A dental guard (usually for teeth grinding)
Making lifestyle adjustments can also improve your quality of sleep, especially when combined with medical treatments.
You may want to consider:
Increasing vegetables and fish to your diet while reducing sugar intake
Exercising to reduce stress and anxiety
Establishing a regular sleeping schedule and sticking to it
Drinking less water before bedtime
Limiting caffeine intake, especially in the late afternoon or evening
Cutting back on tobacco and alcohol use
Eating smaller, low-carbohydrate meals before bedtime