Education

Sleep Disorders
A sleep disorder is defined as anything that interferes with one's sleep or one's ability to function in a well-rested manner when awake. Below are just a few of the many conditions and problems that are considered sleep disorders:

Nightmares
Long, frightening dreams that occur frequently, disrupting sleep.

Night Terrors
Terrifying episodes that cause the sleeper to suddenly awaken during the night.

Narcolepsy
A neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable need to sleep, regardless of the time of day or the situation.

Psychological Conditions
Mental health problems, including depression and anxiety, may cause an individual to sleep too much or too little.

Sleep Apnea
A serious condition that causes a person to stop breathing intermittently during the night. Sleep apnea may be suspected when a person snores loudly.

Snoring by itself, even loud snoring does not mean you have sleep apnea. However, if you have ever fallen asleep against your will, or if you or your bedmate recognize several of the following symptoms, consult your physician for further diagnosis. Patients who are currently receiving treatment for sleep apnea and are having problems with their CPAP therapy, or who are seeking more information may wish to join the Sleep Laboratory's Sleep Support Group.

Do you frequently...

• Wake up groggy or tired in the morning, no matter how many hours you slept?
• Wake up startled, or with your heart pounding?
• Have severe headaches, especially in the morning?
• Experience uncontrollable sleepiness at inappropriate moments, while driving your car, at meals, at an important meeting, or consistently in front of the TV?
• Perform poorly at work? Feel as if you are not as sharp?
• Suffer from hypertension?
• Experience dizziness or a balance problem?
• Experience loss of interest in sex?
• Feel irritable or display unprovoked outbursts of temper?

Does your bedmate...

• Snore very loudly?
• Flail arms and legs during the night?
• Have difficulty getting air in and out of the nose or mouth?
• Appear to be struggling or choking?