Sleep Disorders

What are sleep disorders?

Sleep disorders affect the amount and quality of sleep you experience each night. Some sleep disorders cause you to sleep excessively, while others deprive you of high-quality rest. Addressing your symptoms requires an accurate diagnosis through a comprehensive physiological assessment. 

What are the different types of sleep disorders?

Some of the most common types of sleep disorders are:

Insomnia

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder in which you’re unable to fall or stay asleep throughout the night. Without treatment, insomnia can impact your mood, appetite, and performance at work or school.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy causes extreme periods of daytime fatigue and drowsiness. You may struggle to stay awake during the day and experience sudden episodes of sleep.

Restless leg syndrome 

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) causes an uncomfortable sensation that forces you to move your legs at rest. While RLS symptoms may subside when you move your leg, the relief is only temporary.

Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a group of conditions that cause hundreds of pauses in breathing while you sleep. Loud snoring is the most common sign of sleep apnea, but morning headaches, drowsiness, and sore throat also affect people with sleep apnea.

What are the symptoms of sleep disorders?

While every sleep disorder causes unique symptoms, common signs include:

• Waking up throughout the night
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Grogginess and irritability
• Daytime drowsiness
• Poor sleep quality

Low-quality sleep affects every aspect of your life, from your mental to your physical health. Comprehensive treatment is necessary to relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of sleep.

How are sleep disorders treated?

The type of treatment the Alevea Mental Health team recommends depends on the sleep disorder you have. After a comprehensive evaluation that includes a physical exam and psychological assessment, the team may recommend a combination approach that includes:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Regular exercise
• Counseling
• Stress management techniques
• Medications
• Supplements

Healthy sleep habits can also improve your quality of rest. Minimizing the amount of light and noise in your bedroom, unplugging from electronics, and going to bed early can help you feel rested and rejuvenated in the morning.

Call Alevea Mental Health or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about sleep disorders.