· Log in

What are the basic sleep disorders?

Written by: David Castillo on February 11th, 2010

What are the basic sleep disorders? | read this item

Sleep disorders are a common problem among Americans. And most of the time, these disorders are left undetected and undiagnosed. That’s why it is all the more important to raise awareness about basic sleep disorders.

One of the most basic conditions is sleep apnea. This is a condition indicated by obstructed breathing as the throat muscles relax. The sufferer’s breathing stops and starts intermittently.

Symptoms include snoring and drowsiness during daytime, which can be dangerous. In fact, daytime drowsiness accounts for a large percentage of traffic accidents.

Also, sleep apnea has been linked to increased chances of cardiovascular failure.

Another common sleep disorder is restless leg syndrome, where sufferers experience discomfort in the lower limbs during sleep. This condition is linked to diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, as well as other medical conditions.

This condition can be avoided by regular stretching exercises and clean sleep hygiene practices. However, sever cases will need medication.

Narcolepsy is another sleep disorder. This condition is characterized by an irresistible urge to fall asleep during daytime. Counseling, regular exercise, and regular sleep patterns will help combat this condition.

Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder is also something that needs to be diagnosed properly.

Whenever a person dreams, the brain activates its waking activity. However, when REM occurs, the muscles become too relaxed that it becomes paralyzed. Sufferers often act out their dreams. This condition requires medication for optimal treatment.

Sleep walking, on the other hand, is a condition common among children. There are some cases that persist until adulthood. To solve this problem, sufferers need a good sleep routine, hypnotherapy, and medication.

Source: Independent.ie

sleep