Most people think of sleep as a time when the body and mind shut down. But in reality, sleep is a complex process essential for physical and mental health. Unfortunately, many people suffer from sleep disorders which can disrupt this process and negatively affect their health. This article will discuss some of the most common sleep disorders and how to overcome the
Insomnia
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, affecting 30-40% of adults. It is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Insomnia can be caused by stress, anxiety, medications, and other medical conditions. If you have insomnia, here are several things you can do to overcome it:
- Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
- Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bed
- Create a comfortable sleeping environment
One of the most common medications used to control insomnia is melatonin supplements. Melatonin is a hormone that helps to regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. The body produces more melatonin at night, which makes people feel sleepy. Fortunately, you can take melatonin gummies to help with insomnia. Melatonin supplements are available in pill, liquid, and capsule forms. They are generally considered safe for most people when used short-term.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea occurs when breathing is interrupted during sleep. It can cause loud snoring, gasping, and even choking. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. If you have sleep apnea, you must see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Apart from diagnosis, your physician will help you:
- treat underlying conditions such as obesity or sinus problems,
- use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, and
- advise surgery to correct structural problems in the airway.
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
RLS is characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs. RLS can cause insomnia and daytime fatigue. It is often caused by iron deficiency, but other medical conditions can also cause it. If you suffer from RLS, here are a few things you can do to ease the symptoms:
- TakeIron supplements if you are iron deficient
- Exercise regularly
- Take medications prescribed by your doctor
- Apply heat or cold to your legs
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a rare sleep disorder. It prevents the brain from controlling the sleep-wake cycles appropriately. People with narcolepsy may suddenly fall asleep during the day, even when engaged in activities such as talking or eating. Narcolepsy can also cause sleep paralysis, in which a person cannot move or speak for a few minutes after waking up. Narcolepsy is a serious and disabling condition, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
- Take medications prescribed by your doctor
- Establish a regular sleep schedule
- Get enough exercise during the day
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed
Sleep Paralysis
Sleep paralysis is when a person cannot move or speak for a few minutes after waking up. It can be a terrifying experience, but it is not dangerous and usually goes away independently. Sleep paralysis is often caused by sleep deprivation, but other medical conditions can also cause it. If you have sleep paralysis, here are some ways to help ease the symptoms:
- Get enough sleep
- Establish a regular sleep schedule
- Avoid sleeping on your back
- Take medications prescribed by your doctor
Nightmares and Night Terrors
Nightmares and night terrors are different sleep disorders that cause disturbed sleep. Nightmares are vivid, often frightening dreams that can cause sleep disruptions. Night terrors are a type of sleep disorder characterized by screaming, thrashing, and terror. Nightmares and terrors are often caused by stress, anxiety, or other medical conditions. If you suffer from nightmares or night terrors, you can do the following to find comfort:
- Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
- Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bed
- Create a comfortable sleeping environment
- Talk to your doctor about medications that can help
Sleepwalking
Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder characterized by walking or performing other activities while asleep. Sleepwalking can be dangerous because people who are sleepwalking are often unaware of their surroundings and may not be able to respond to hazards. Sleepwalking is often caused by sleep deprivation, but other medical conditions can also cause it. If you suffer from sleepwalking, you must:
- get enough sleep,
- establish a regular sleep schedule,
- avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed,
- take medications prescribed by your doctor, or
- practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
There are many different sleep disorders, but the most common ones are insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. Sleep disorders can cause disturbed sleep and disablement, but they can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. You must see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if you have a sleep disorder.
