Insomnia is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. You may have transient insomnia, acute insomnia, or chronic insomnia. Many other sleep disorders unrelated to insomnia can interfere with your ability to sleep. It is important you visit your doctor to find out whether your sleeping problems are from insomnia or from other serious sleep disorders.
Sleep Disorder 1 - Sleep Apnea: Many people know the term “sleep apnea” but they do not really know what it means. Obstructive sleep apnea causes the windpipe to collapse during the night, which may cause you to experience shortness of breath while sleeping. You wake up many times a night, causing daytime drowsiness. There are many treatments for sleep apnea. Learn more about sleep apnea and related conditions.
Sleep Disorder 2 - Restless Legs Syndrome or Periodic Limb Movement Disorder: RLS may also interrupt your sleep. If you have this condition you may feel pain in your lower leg or calves that requires you to stretch your leg to help relieve the discomfort. This may interrupt your sleep. A complication of this condition is periodic limb movement disorder, where your legs and your arms move while you are asleep, and you have no awareness of these actions. Learn more about RLS.
Sleep Disorder 3 - Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy is a rare disorder that can be disabling and have a pronounced impact on your life. Some symptoms include daytime exhaustion or falling asleep while performing routine tasks. Many people with narcolepsy collapse in the middle of a task. Learn more about narcolepsy.
Help For Sleep Problems and Sleep Disorders: Remember, if you suffer from insomnia or any other sleeping problem, you should seek the help of a qualified health provider. Proper and prompt treatment can help you get you the sleep you need sooner rather than later. A qualified health professional may send you to a sleep clinic where you may undergo a series of tests to determine what type of sleeping disorder you have before they treat you. It is in your best interests to go if your doctor sends you, because you do not want to treat sleep apnea with insomnia medications. It's always better to find the cause of sleeplessness first!
Why Doctors Diagnose And Treat Insomnia And Sleep Disorders: You may think you can treat your sleeplessness with sleep aids or other insomnia medications, but usually this can lead to many problems, including addiction. Many over-the-counter medications only work for a short time. They can leave you feeling lethargic in the mornings. Not sure if you should see your doctor? Remember, a doctor can provide you with many insomnia facts and help you identify underlying causes for insomnia or a related sleep disorder if you have one. You will also receive guidance about taking proper care of your health so you can enjoy healthy sleep.