Fixing the Sleep Struggles
Sleep issues affect many people. Knowing the signs of a sleep disorder can help you spot the problem early and get help.
5 Signs of a Sleep Disorder
1. Feeling Very Tired During the Day
One major sign of a sleep disorder is feeling very tired during the day, even if you’ve had a full night of sleep. This can lead to poor focus, forgetfulness and irritability. Some people may fall asleep suddenly during the day, which can be dangerous, especially when driving or working.
2. Struggling to Fall Asleep
If it takes you more than 30 minutes to fall asleep on most nights, it could mean you have a sleep disorder. This issue is common with insomnia, where people feel "wide awake" at bedtime. Over time, this can make you feel exhausted and anxious about sleep.
3. Waking Up Often During the Night
Many people wake up once or twice during the night, but if it’s happening frequently and you find it hard to fall back asleep, it could be a sign of a sleep disorder. Waking up multiple times can lead to poor-quality sleep, leaving you feeling tired the next day.
4. Trouble Breathing While Sleeping
A key sign of sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder, is breathing that stops and starts during sleep. If you snore loudly or wake up gasping for air, it could mean your body isn’t getting enough oxygen at night. Sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues if untreated.
5. Excessive Sleepiness With No Clear Cause
Idiopathic hypersomnia is a rare sleep disorder where people feel extremely tired without a known cause. They may sleep for very long hours (10 hours or more) but still wake up feeling unrefreshed. Unlike typical sleepiness, this tiredness doesn’t go away with naps or more rest.
Treatments for Sleep Disorders
Treating a sleep disorder depends on the type you have. Here are some common treatments that may help:
- Sleep hygiene: Developing a regular sleep routine, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, can improve sleep quality. Avoid caffeine and electronics before bed.
- Medications: Doctors may prescribe sleeping pills for insomnia, or stimulants to help with disorders like narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia. However, these should be used under medical advice.
- CPAP machine for sleep apnea: For sleep apnea, a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine can help by keeping airways open, allowing for steady breathing throughout the night.
- Therapy for insomnia: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a common treatment for insomnia. It helps address negative thoughts and habits around sleep, teaching better sleep habits.
- Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet and stress-reducing activities can help with sleep disorders by promoting relaxation and better overall health.
If you think you have a sleep disorder, talk to your doctor. They can guide you toward a treatment plan that’s right for you. Getting the right help can lead to better sleep and improved daily energy.