The collective term, sleep disorder refers to a group of conditions that affect your ability to sleep, your quality of sleep, when you sleep and the duration of sleep, all of which can negatively impact the proper functioning of your body during the day. Furthermore, in some cases, sleeping disorders may be an indication of underlying medical or mental health conditions which could contribute to other medical problems. Lack of sleep may cause fatigue, moodiness, low concentration levels, and poor overall health. However, these sleeping issues may eventually go away when the underlying cause is treated or with a lifestyle change.
Insomnia refers to the inability to fall or stay asleep. It may be a symptom of another condition caused by stress, anxiety, jet lag, hormones, or digestive problems. This sleeping disorder may lead to:
Abnormal breathing patterns and breathing pauses during sleep are the major characteristics of sleep apnea. This sleeping disorder is a medical condition that causes the body to take in less oxygen and thus waking you up during the night. The two types of sleep apnea are:
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a type of sleep movement disorder causing an irresistible sensation and urge to move your legs or arms while trying to fall asleep at night. The urge to move may be tingly, aching, and uncomfortable and usually occurs when you are resting or lying down.
Parasomnias is one of the sleeping issues that cause abnormal behaviors and movements during sleep. For instance:
Narcolepsy is a sleeping disorder characterized by sleep attacks that happen while awake. The patient suddenly becomes tired and experiences extreme sleepiness, and falls asleep without warning during the day. In addition, narcolepsy can cause sleep paralysis, which may make you physically unable to move immediately after waking up. While narcolepsy may occur independently, it is also linked to some neurological disorders, like multiple sclerosis.
When you are experiencing sleeping issues, it is important to seek diagnosis and treatment right away from a professional, because sleep disorders can become deadly when left untreated. For more information about sleeping disorders and health, matters feel free to schedule an appointment with Joanne.
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