Sleep is the best form of rest, but many people experience sleep disorders. Difficulty in sleeping is becoming more rampant these days.
This problem involves changes in sleeping patterns, adversely affecting one’s health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), four key sleep disorders exist. See them below for more information.
Sleep Disorders You Should Know About
Narcolepsy Sleep Disorder
Narcolepsy is known for its disruptiveness in a person’s life. This problem comprises episodes of daytime sleepiness and sudden muscle weakness.
Also known as sleep attacks, narcolepsy can happen anytime and anywhere. It can occur even when an individual is engaged in physical activities like walking or writing.
Visiting a medical professional is the best step to tackle narcolepsy. Treatment may involve medications and scheduled naps.
Sleep Apnea
“Apnea” is derived from the Greek word “breathless.” Sleep apnea is among sleep disorders, which refers to difficulty breathing when a person sleeps.
It occurs when the airway is blocked, or the brain is not entirely controlling breathing. When it’s worse, a survival reflex wakes the individual in time to resume breathing. Such breaks interrupt the sleep cycle and prevent restful sleep. It also negatively affects the heart.
Insomnia
Insomnia is difficulty staying asleep, falling asleep, or irregular sleep patterns or timing. It’s a problem that affects an individual, including mood, work performance, health, and quality of life.
This condition can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic). There are also two types of insomnia, namely:
Primary Insomnia: This type isn’t linked to any existing health condition.
Secondary Insomnia: This type of insomnia stems from other health conditions. The individual has trouble sleeping due to problems like asthma, depression, pain, substance abuse, etc.
Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless Leg Syndrome is one of the key sleep disorders that occur in the lower legs with aches and pains. It comes with a strong desire to move your legs when resting. RLS is characterized by throbbing, itching, crawling, pulling, etc.
It can be relieved by walking and treated by qualified medical professionals. Unfortunately, there is currently no permanent cure for it.