Understanding Common Sleep Disorders

By Annapolis Asthma, Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists

. https://www.annapolispulmonary.com

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Understanding Common Sleep Disorders

Many adults struggle to get the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. While improving sleep habits — like maintaining a regular bedtime — can help, some individuals continue to experience poor-quality rest due to underlying sleep disorders. These conditions often go unrecognized, yet they can have serious effects on overall health and daily functioning.

Snoring is one of the most common sleep-related concerns. While it may seem harmless, chronic or loud snoring can signal deeper issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Snoring results when airflow is partially blocked during sleep, causing vibration of the tissues in the throat. If the airway becomes fully blocked, breathing temporarily stops — a key feature of OSA.

Obstructive sleep apnea is marked by repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night. These interruptions disrupt sleep cycles and often leave individuals feeling exhausted during the day. OSA has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other serious health concerns.

Insomnia involves difficulty falling or staying asleep. It may be acute, triggered by temporary stress or lifestyle changes, or chronic, lasting months or years. Insomnia affects both mental and physical health, often contributing to irritability, memory issues, and weakened immunity.

Sleep paralysis occurs when a person wakes up and becomes consciously aware but cannot move or speak. These episodes are usually brief but can be distressing. In some cases, they are associated with other sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy.

Narcolepsy is characterized by extreme daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of falling asleep, sometimes without warning. People with narcolepsy may also experience sleep paralysis, vivid hallucinations during sleep transitions, and muscle weakness triggered by emotions (cataplexy).

Circadian rhythm disorders occur when the body’s internal clock is misaligned with the external environment. Common examples include jet lag or shift work sleep disorder. These disruptions can make it difficult to fall asleep or wake up at desired times.

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs that create an overwhelming urge to move them, especially at night. This can interfere with falling asleep and lead to fragmented sleep.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) causes persistent, unexplained tiredness that does not improve with rest. While it may be linked to other conditions like sleep apnea, CFS can also occur independently.

Recognizing the signs of sleep disorders is an important step toward better rest and better health.