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How to Diagnose & Treat the 5 Most Common Sleep Disorders?

    Sleep is one of the most important components of a healthy body. It’s also the one thing that is often neglected and overlooked. When you sleep your body has a chance to review the activities of the day and repair damaged cells. 

    If you’re struggling to sleep you need to see a specialist that can help you diagnose and treat the disorder. Treatment can range from medication to a physio Darlinghurst.

    Diagnosing a sleep disorder is comparatively easy. If you’re struggling to get 6 hours of sleep a night regardless of how long you stay in bed, or if you simply can’t get to sleep and wake up a lot, you have a sleep issue. You’ll need to see your doctor. They will help you to identify the issue and resolve it. 

    The most common sleep disorders are:

     

    • Insomnia

     

    You should note there are actually two types of insomnia; short-term and chronic. Short term insomnia is usually the result of stress or trauma. The event will be replayed by your mind over and over again, preventing you from sleeping properly. 

    The cause can be obvious such as the death of a loved one. But, it can also be harder to identify, such as a simple shift in work detail or times.  In this instance, professional counseling can help.

     

    • Restless Legs

     

    If you’ve ever felt the need to wriggle your legs around while you’re sleeping and simply can’t resist doing it, you’re dealing with restless leg syndrome.

    You can also experience a crawling or aching in your legs which can be relieved by stretching. Symptoms can appear during the daytime, especially if you’re sat for long periods. But, it will always be worse at night.

    This is a recognized medical condition that is still being researched. But, your doctor will be able to give you medication to help.

     

    • Sleep Apnea

     

    This is potentially the most common of all the sleep disorders. It is when your airway becomes blocked, preventing your body from getting the oxygen it needs. You’re likely to stop breathing and startle awake as your body and brain are starved of oxygen. 

    It can happen multiple times every night.  Other symptoms associated with this are dry mouth, extreme tiredness, headaches, and irritability. There are many different therapy options that can help.

     

    • Narcolepsy

     

    This is the disease that causes you to fall asleep at bizarre and inappropriate times. In effect, you’re unable to regulate your normal sleep-wake cycle. Your body simply periodically shuts down!

    You’ll have to combat it with scheduled sleep time ad medication.

     

    • Sleep Behavior Disorder

     

    Finally, if you act out dreams while you’re asleep you may have REM sleep behavior disorder. This is a common side effect of trauma and some medications. Professional help finding and dealing with the cause of the issue will be required. This is an emotional issue.

    Should you be experiencing any of the above it is important to get medical advice and help as soon as possible. It will help to improve your quality of life.