Sleep disorders affect the ability to sleep well regularly. Whether they are caused by a health problem or by too much stress.
Changes in sleeping patterns or habits that can negatively affect health are known as sleeping disorders or sleeping problems.
Types of sleep disorders.
Restless legs syndrome.
A condition characterized by a nearly irresistible urge to move the legs, typically in the evenings.
Jet lag
A sleep disorder that can affect those who travel quickly across multiple time zones.
Narcolepsy
A chronic sleep disorder that causes overwhelming daytime drowsiness.
Night terror
Episodes of screaming, intense fear and flailing while still asleep, often paired with sleepwalking.
Insomnia
Persistent problems falling and staying asleep.
Obstructive sleep apnea
Intermittent airflow blockage during sleep.
Sleepwalking
The act of getting up and walking around while asleep.
What are the symptoms of sleep disorders?
Symptoms differ depending on the severity and type of sleeping disorder. They may also vary when sleep disorders are a result of another condition. The most common causes of sleep disorders include heartburn, stress, depression, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders, kidney disease, mental health problems, neurological disorders, respiratory problems, and thyroid disease.
There are many conditions, diseases, and disorders that can cause sleep disturbances. In many cases, sleep disorders develop as a result of an underlying health problem.
Allergies and respiratory problems.
Allergies, colds, and upper respiratory infections can make it challenging to breathe at night. The inability to breathe through your nose can also cause sleeping difficulties.
Frequent urination
Nocturia, or frequent urination, may disrupt your sleep by causing you to wake up during the night. Hormonal imbalances and diseases of the urinary tract may contribute to the advancement of this condition. Be sure to call your doctor right away if frequent urination is accompanied by bleeding or pain.
Chronic pain
Constant pain can make it difficult to fall asleep. It might even wake you up after you fall asleep.
Medical treatments
Medical treatment for sleep disorders might include any of the following:
- Sleeping pills.
- Melatonin supplements.
- Allergy or cold medication.
- Medications for any underlying health issues.
- Breathing device or surgery (usually for sleep apnea).
- A dental guard (usually for teeth grinding).
Lifestyle changes.
Sleep Disorders can often be caused by bad sleeping habits. It is often rectified by making a few simple changes to your lifestyle, routine and daily practices leading up to your bedtime.
Having a routine before bed can greatly increase the effectiveness of falling asleep and reduce poor sleep hygiene.
There should be a relaxing activity such as reading, listening to relaxing music, meditating or bathing.
Exercising just before bed is not recommended as it increases body temperature and mental alertness. Exercising should be done during the middle of the day. Having an active and healthy lifestyle will also help in good sleep behaviour. On top of the routine, you should also have a regular bedtime.
Lifestyle adjustments can greatly improve your quality of sleep, especially when they’re done along with medical treatments.
You may want to consider:
- Including more vegetables and fish into your diet, and reducing sugar intake.
- Reducing stress and anxiety by exercising and stretching.
- Creating and sticking to a regular sleeping schedule.
- Drinking less water before bedtime.
- Limiting your caffeine intake, especially in the late afternoon or evening.
- Decreasing tobacco and alcohol use.
- Eating smaller low carbohydrate meals before bedtime.
- Maintaining a healthy weight based on your doctor’s recommendations.
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