Common Adult Sleep Disorders
COMMON ADULT SLEEP DISORDERS
If you can’t get to sleep, can’t stay asleep, restlessly toss and turn, or wake up irritable and unrefreshed, you may have a sleep disorder. You are not alone. More than 44 million Americans have a sleep disorder. Luckily, treatments are available that can help individuals achieve a healthier night’s sleep and feel better during the day. Common adult sleep disorders include:
Snoring and Sleep-Disordered Breathing:
Snoring is a common sleep-related issue characterized by noisy breathing during sleep. It can be caused by various factors such as obesity, nasal congestion, or anatomical abnormalities. In some cases, snoring can be a symptom of sleep-disordered breathing, including sleep apnea. Snoring can disturb the sleep of both the snorer and their sleep partner, leading to daytime sleepiness and relationship difficulties.
Sleep Apnea:
Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea syndrome (a combination of both). OSA is the most common type and occurs when the muscles in the throat relax, leading to a blockage of the airway. Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches.
Insomnia:
Insomnia refers to difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep despite having the opportunity for adequate sleep. It can be caused by various factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, medications, or certain medical conditions. Insomnia can lead to daytime fatigue, impaired concentration, mood disturbances, and reduced overall quality of life.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS):
RLS is a neurological disorder that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. These sensations are often described as tingling, crawling, or creeping feelings, and they typically worsen during periods of rest or inactivity. RLS can disrupt sleep and lead to daytime sleepiness or fatigue.
Narcolepsy:
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden, uncontrollable episodes of sleep. People with narcolepsy may experience sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), hallucinations, and sleep paralysis. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.
Parasomnias:
Parasomnias are a group of sleep disorders that involve abnormal behaviors or experiences during sleep. They can include sleepwalking, sleep talking, night terrors, REM sleep behavior disorder (acting out dreams), and sleep-related eating disorder. These disorders can disrupt sleep and cause distress to the individual or their sleep partner.
Circadian Rhythm Disorders:
Circadian rhythm disorders are disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle due to a mismatch between an individual's internal body clock and their desired sleep schedule. Common examples include jet lag, shift work disorder (difficulty adjusting to shift work), and delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (a tendency to fall asleep and wake up later than desired).
These are just a few examples of adult sleep disorders, and there are other less common conditions as well. If you suspect that you may be experiencing a sleep disorder, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a sleep specialist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.