Sleep Disorders – Everything You Need To Know

Sleep Disorders – Everything You Need To Know
Sleep Disorders – Everything You Need To Know

Sleep disorders are a group of conditions that adversely affect the quality and duration of sleep. These conditions regularly prevent the sufferer from getting an adequate amount of sleep.

Poor sleep caused by sleep disorders leads to anxiety, depression, poor work performance; and can even cause a chronic health condition.

What Are The Types Of Sleep Disorders?

Sleep disorders can be of different types. Some of the most common sleep disorders are insomnia, which is the inability to fall or remain asleep, and sleep apnea, which leads to disruption in breathing during sleep. Other types of sleep disorders are narcolepsy (sudden spells of sleepiness while awake), restless leg syndrome (tingling sensation in the legs at night), and parasomnias, such as sleepwalking, teeth grinding, nightmares, and bed-wetting.

What Are the Adverse Effects of Sleep Disorders?

The primary importance of sleep is that it allows the brain to relax and function properly. Hence, sleep disorders lead to fatigue, anxiety, depression, poor work performance, low concentration, memory loss, and irritability.

Inadequate sleep can also lead to chronic health conditions such as heart disease, osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.

What Causes Sleep Disorders?

Sleep disorders can often be caused by external triggers such as stress and a hectic lifestyle. They can also be caused by other underlying conditions, such as depression, hormonal imbalances, respiratory problems, or chronic pain. Hence, patients require medical consultation to identify the root cause of the sleep disorder for appropriate treatment.

Can Sleep Aid Supplements Cure Sleep Disorders?

According to studies, some of the top sleep aid supplements, such as Melatonin, and herbal alternatives, such as Kava, can improve the quality of sleep. However, there is a lack of substantial evidence to prove that they can cure chronic insomnia. The best course of action for chronic disorders is to obtain a doctor’s prescription for stronger medication.

How Do Doctors Diagnose and Treat Sleep Disorders?

Sleep disorders are diagnosed with the help of tests such as Polysomnography, EEG, and Multiple Sleep Latency Test. Additional tests may be conducted to diagnose underlying medical conditions that can cause sleep disorders. After the diagnosis, the doctor can prescribe a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as per the established clinical guidelines for treating sleep disorders.

Can Sleep Gummies Help Insomniacs?

Sleep gummies such as Olly Sleep usually contain Melatonin as the primary ingredient. According to studies, Melatonin aids with better sleep and has minimal side effects like headaches and dizziness. Most of the Olly Sleep reviews by consumers state that the gummies did help them fall asleep more easily. If you suffer from chronic insomnia, though, it is best to consult a doctor for effective prescription medication.

Some Olly Sleep reviews mention that the gummies worked well in combination with antihistamines or other prescription medicines. However, it is recommended to seek medical advice to consume sleep gummies along with other medicines.

What Are the Medications to Treat Sleep Disorders?

The common classes of medication prescribed for sleep disorders include Z sedatives, Benzodiazepines (tranquilizers), Melatonin Receptor Agonists, antidepressants, and antihistamines. If the sleep disorder is caused by an underlying condition, the standard treatment procedure to address said condition is followed.

What Are The Natural Ways To Treat Insomnia?

Apart from medication, certain lifestyle changes and natural remedies can offer relief to insomniacs. These include the following –

  • Daily exercise
  • Meditation
  • Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil
  • Avoiding caffeine and smoking
  • Regular massages

Also, better stress-management and eliminating stressful stimuli can help those struggling with sleep disorders.

How Does Behavioral Therapy Treat Sleep Disorders?

Behavioral therapy helps those struggling with sleep disorders to practice habits that improve the quality of sleep. The therapist helps the patient identify and control the stimuli that adversely impact their sleep. Additionally, behavioral therapy teaches sleep scheduling techniques, sleep hygiene, and relaxation tips, all of which contribute to better sleep.

Are Sleep Disorders Genetic?

Certain sleep disorders can be hereditary. As per studies, a genetic marker has been identified for some rare sleep disorders, namely, narcolepsy with cataplexy, chronic primary insomnia, and fatal familial insomnia.

Are Sleep Disorders Fatal?

Fatal insomnia is a rare disorder that can progressively lead to dementia and death. While other forms of sleep disorders may not directly cause death, they can lead to fatal conditions such as heart disease. Also, poor sleep causes reduced concentration that can result in fatal accidents and mishaps.

When to Seek Medical Attention For A Sleep Disorder?

If you are unable to sleep at night or have been observing any abnormal sleep behavior, you should seek medical advice. Breathlessness, fatigue, poor concentration, memory loss, or excessive sleepiness during the day can all be caused by a sleep disorder. It is advisable to consult a doctor if you are suffering from any or all of these symptoms.

Conclusion

Poor sleep quality can harm the overall health and well-being of an individual. When left untreated, sleep disorders can cause chronic diseases and can lead to poor mental health. Hence, it is crucial to understand the importance of sleep and seek medical advice when suffering from sleep disorders.

With the appropriate clinical intervention and a few lifestyle changes, sleep disorders can be treated effectively. Hence, if you or a loved one struggles with poor sleep quality, do not hesitate to reach out for medical counsel.

References

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4634348/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5840912/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4273450/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19075715/

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I'm NOT a doctor! I'm just passionate about health and healthy leaving. The information on this website, such as graphics, images, text and all other materials, is provided for reference and educational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. The content is not intended to be complete or exhaustive or to apply to any specific individual's medical condition.