Sleep disorders are major disturbances of normal sleep patterns that lead to distress and disrupt functioning during the day. Not only are sleep disorders extremely common, affecting virtually everyone at some point in their lives, but they can also lead to serious stress and other health consequences.

Insomnia:

Insomnia is by far the most common sleep disorder. Common symptoms of insomnia include difficulty getting to sleep and waking before it is time to get up. There are many factors that can contribute to insomnia including stress and underlying medical conditions. Typical treatments include medication and behavior therapy. 

Sleep Apnea:

Sleep apnea is the second most common sleep disorder. This disorder causes people to stop breathing abruptly while they are asleep. During this brief period, carbon dioxide builds up in the blood and the sleeper wakes suddenly to gasp for breath. The length of time that the sleeper stop breathing can vary from a few seconds to so long that the individuals skin actually turns blue from oxygen deprivation.

Narcolepsy:

Narcolepsy is a neurological sleep disorder that leads to periods of intense sleepiness during the daytime. People suffering from narcolepsy often experience bouts of overwhelming sleepiness and may fall asleep for brief periods of time during the day. These sleeping periods may last from a few seconds to several minutes and in some cases may last up to an hour or more. Those with narcolepsy can fall asleep in the middle of a conversation, during a meal or even while driving a vehicle.

Narcolepsy is a chronic condition that typically begins during adolescence. Other symptoms include hallucinations and paralysis during sleep.

Sleepwalking & Night Terrors:

While insomnia and sleep apnea are more common in adults, other sleep disorders such as sleepwalking and night terrors are far more common in young children. Sleepwalking is characterized by periods of getting out of bed while asleep.

Night terror typical symptoms include excessive sweating, shaking and obvious fear.

Contact Dr. Gebrane's office today at +96171892737 or e-mail us today for more information.