Sleep

Understanding Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders encompass a range of conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns. Here are some common types of sleep disorders and their characteristics:

Circadian Rhythm Disorders

Typically, people sleep at night, influenced by both societal norms and the internal “clock” in our brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. This clock, located above the optic nerves, regulates our sleep and alertness rhythms. Light and exercise can reset this clock. Abnormalities related to this clock are known as circadian rhythm disorders, which include:

• Jet Lag: Disruption of sleep patterns due to travel across time zones.
• Shift Work Adjustment: Difficulty adjusting to different work hours.
• Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: Falling asleep and waking up later than desired.
• Advanced Sleep Phase Syndrome: Falling asleep and waking up earlier than desired.

Insomnia

Insomnia involves difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. It impacts daytime functioning and can be caused by stress, anxiety, depression, poor sleep habits, circadian rhythm disorders, and certain medications.

Snoring

Snoring occurs when the airway is partially obstructed, causing the tissues in the throat to vibrate. It can be a nuisance due to the noise and may indicate a more serious condition called sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea involves the partial or complete blockage of the upper airway during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing and frequent awakenings. It causes severe daytime sleepiness and, if untreated, can increase the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack.

Pregnancy and Sleep

Pregnant women often experience sleep disturbances, especially in the first and third trimesters. Early pregnancy may involve frequent bathroom trips and morning sickness, while later stages bring vivid dreams and physical discomfort. Postpartum sleep can be disrupted by newborn care or postpartum depression.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder causing excessive daytime sleepiness and, in some cases, sudden sleep attacks. It may have a genetic component, but most patients do not have a family history. Many experience constant sleepiness rather than dramatic sleep attacks.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

RLS causes discomfort in the legs and feet, particularly in the evening and night, leading to an urge to move the legs for temporary relief. It can delay sleep onset and cause frequent awakenings.

Nightmares

Nightmares are distressing dreams occurring during REM sleep, often triggered by stress, anxiety, or certain medications. They can cause significant distress and sleep disruption.

Night Terrors and Sleepwalking

Night terrors and sleepwalking occur during NREM sleep and are most common in children aged 3 to 5. Night terrors involve waking up screaming and frightened, often with no memory of the event. Sleepwalkers can perform activities while still asleep, sometimes engaging in potentially dangerous behaviors.