A sleep disorder is a condition that affects your sleep quality in different kinds of ways. It also affects your overall health, safety, and quality of life.
There are different types of sleep disorders. Some major types include:
- Insomnia – when you can’t fall or stay asleep.
- Hypersomnia – when you’re constantly sleeping.
- Narcolepsy – when you experience sudden powerful sleepiness.
- Circadian Rhythm – when your sleep-wake cycle is disrupted.
- Restless Leg Syndrome – when you feel like you have to move your legs at night.
- Sleep apnea – when you stop breathing for a few seconds while sleeping.
- Parasomnia – when you act in the usual ways when sleeping, such as talking, walking, or eating.
Below are a few signs to know if you have a sleep disorder:
- Daytime Sleepiness: This can be an early sign of sleep apnea issues. It can make you irritable and feel fatigued.
- Drowsiness When Driving: This is a trademark of many sleep disorders, especially if you have a daily driving routine.
- Weight Gain: Weight gain can be a sign of a metabolic disorder. Sleep disorders increase your risk of insulin resistance and diabetes.
- High Blood Pressure: Sleep disorders can lead to elevated blood pressure which can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Sleep Disruptions: You wake up several times each night and find it difficult to go back to sleep or you wake up too early in the morning.
- Unhappy Partner: When your partner always complains that you snore loudly, snort, gasp, or make choking sounds when sleeping.
- Muscle Weakness: If you have episodes of sudden muscle weakness when you are angry or fearful, or when you’re laughing, this could be a sign of sleep disorder.
If you suspect that you may have a sleep disorder, discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to help you examine and identify the sleep disorder. However, sleeping on a comfortable mattress is also one of the most intentional ways to tackle sleep disorders.