A sleep disorder is nothing to take lightly, as this can negatively impact your body in a variety of ways. From snoring to sleep apnea to insomnia among others, any type of disorder can go a long way in affecting your life.
Everybody suffers from the occasional sleep problem, however, if this persists there is a chance that you are dealing with a sleep disorder.
The first thing you should do is write down a list of your symptoms. From there, contact your doctor to schedule an appointment. With the assistance of a qualified medical professional, it is much easier to pinpoint any issue you may be having.
Do you have a Sleep Disorder?
While there are tests to help determine if you have a sleep disorder, here are some questions you can answer as you get started:
- Do you find it difficult to fall asleep?
- Do you find it difficult to sleep through the night?
- Do you become extremely tired during the daytime hours?
- Do you feel irritable during the day?
- Do you have difficulty concentrating?
- Do you have trouble controlling your emotions?
- Do you feel depressed at times?
- Do you require caffeine to make it through the day?
If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you may have a sleep disorder.
Common Types of Sleep Disorders
Here is a brief list of the most common types of sleep disorders:
- Insomnia
- Sleep apnea
- Snoring
- Narcolepsy
- Sleepwalking and night terrors
- Restless legs syndrome
Sleep Disorder Treatment
The treatment prescribed depends largely on the type of sleep disorder, as well as the overall impact it is having on the person’s life.
Here are several types of treatment to consider:
- Lifestyle changes. This can include everything from losing weight to quitting smoking and much more. Discuss this with your doctor.
- Sleeping pills. Many people find that this is the best way to deal with a sleep disorder, as a prescription medication allows them to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep throughout the night.
- The use of a continuous positive airway pressure mask. For those with sleep apnea, this is a common treatment method. It helps increase air pressure inside your throat, allowing for a better night’s sleep.
- Surgery. This is typically a last resort, and is only for the most serious sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea.
If you believe you have a sleep disorder, it is essential to discuss your symptoms with an experienced doctor. From there, you are in better position to pinpoint your disorder and receive the best treatment.