Health experts advise us to get at least 6 hours of sleep every night. This is because sleep is essential for both physical and psychological well-being. Getting inadequate or no sleep at all puts your body and overall health at risk. Many suggest that hybrid mattresses help you to get a restful sleep. See here where to find a hybrid. Most sleep-related conditions can take a toll on one’s overall well-being, another reason you must be careful with the same. Outlined below are 4 most common sleep disorders you should know of:
1. Insomnia
Insomnia is a chronic condition characterized by difficulties falling asleep, sleep disruptions when you do, and waking up earlier than normal. Individuals with insomnia are easily irritated and often wake up exhausted and moody. Insomnia may arise as a result of certain medication, stress, or an underlying health condition.
While it may seem like nothing, regular sleep disruptions are known to increase one’s risk of serious health conditions, including mental health, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It also affects one’s ability to concentrate or focus for long, a risk for those operating heavy machinery and vehicles. There’s however no known medication for insomnia, though doctors recommend cognitive behavioral therapy and sleep aids.
2. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by airway blockage whilst one is asleep. This temporarily causes one to stop breathing, making it hard to go into REM sleep. Sleep apnea can prove dangerous for individuals with an underlying health condition, a reason corrective measures are needed. CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) or bilevel positive airway pressure (BPAP) machines can be used to correct the condition. Surgery may be recommended if none of the above-mentioned seem to help.
3. Restless Leg Syndrome
This neurological disorder is known to make one’s feet restless while asleep or trying to sleep. The condition may thus disrupt one from sleep or even make it harder to fall asleep. Oral medication is often recommended for persons suffering from restless leg syndrome. Practicing proper sleep hygiene can also help manage the condition.
4. Narcolepsy
This is also a nervous system disorder that causes sudden bouts of sleep and daytime drowsiness. Most people with this condition will collapse suddenly due to cataplexy, a state where one loses control of their muscles. Such affects one’s normal way of life and requires/forces them to avoid standing for too long. Doctors use SSRIs or stimulators to help improve symptoms of narcolepsy. Sleep experts also recommend making certain lifestyle adjustments and exercising regularly to help manage the condition.
