Millions of people experience a sleeping disorder every night. Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up throughout the night are some of the common problems people may suffer from on a regular basis. A healthy pattern of sleep is necessary for optimal health and disruptions in these patterns can result in feeling sleepy throughout the day which may have an adverse effect everyday life.
There are many different types of sleeping disorders. These conditions are usually diagnosed by a physician or specialist and they may ask the patient to keep a journal of their sleeping patterns. In addition, they may require the patient to undergo a study to help evaluate the extent and the specific cause of the problem.
Insomnia is one of the most common sleep conditions that people suffer from on a regular basis. It is characterized by the inability to fall asleep and/or stay asleep. Symptoms may include difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night and difficulty falling back to sleep, feeling tired upon waking, and waking up earlier than desired. Insomnia can contribute to irritability, sleepiness throughout the day, and difficulty with memory and concentration. Treatment may include prescription sleeping pills and practicing good sleeping habits.
Sleep deprivation is another condition that causes a person to feel drowsy throughout the day and may also cause many of the symptoms that insomnia does; however, deprivation may contribute to depression or a weakened immune system if not treated. Certain factors such as age determine how much sleep an individual needs to remain healthy. While most adults require 7 to 8 hours, some may only need 5 hours and others may require up to 10 hours. Every individual should find the right balance to determine what keeps them alert and refreshed.
Sleep apnea is a condition where a person's breathing is interrupted while sleeping. This may cause a lack of oxygen to the brain and the rest of the body. It can result in high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, depression, and diabetes. A machine may be used to treat sleep apnea to help deliver air pressure through a mask that is worn by the patient throughout the night.
If any of these symptoms or other symptoms such as snoring, constant headaches, or dry mouth that may occur on a regular basis, contact a doctor as soon as possible. San Diego sleep medicine specialists can help diagnose and treat the condition as quickly as possible to avoid any complications as a result from any type of sleeping disorders.