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Sleep Disorders - The Basics

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea means episodes of cessation of breathing during night time sleep that can occur as often as several hundred times in a night. Snoring is a warning that the sleeper may be a victim of sleep apnea. Learn about the symptoms, causes and possible methods of treatment here.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and periods of muscle weakness called cataplexy. Narcolepsy can cause accidents and injury from falling asleep while driving or doing other dangerous tasks. The symptoms and possible methods of control are listed here.

Insomnia

Insomnia is a very common sleep disorder that keeps you awake night after night and can lead to sleep deprivation. Insomnia has numerous forms, causes and treatments. The basics are listed here.

Sleep Paralysis

Sleep Paralysis is a natural bodily function that causes us to be paralyzed during sleep. It prevents us hurting ourselves or others during dreams. It's when it follows us into the waking state that it becomes a disorder. Causes and methods of control are lsted here.

Snoring

Snoring disrupts your sleep and the sleep of anyone who is in the same room (or even house) as you. Snoring may also be a warning that the sleeper is a victim of sleep apnea.

S.A.D.

Seasonal affective disorder, or S.A.D. is caused by a lack of sunlight during the long dark days of winter. It can often be controlled by bright light therapy.

Night Terrors

Everyone dreams, even if the dreams are sometimes not remembered. Many people suffer from an occasional nightmare. Others suffer the terrifying, seldom remembered horror of night terrors.

Night Sweats

Night sweats isn't really a sleep disorder, but it's one of my most popular topics. I receive questions often about it. Let's take a look at the basics.

Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome

Delayed sleep phase syndrome is a debilitating disorder where the circadian rhythm seems to be reversed. Nighttime sleeping is nearly impossible, and excessive daytime sleepiness interferes with the lifestyle. >Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome

Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome causes burning, itching, crawling sensations in the legs and the victim feels a need to move the limbs to seek relief.

Jet Lag

Anyone who jets from one side of the world to the other is familiar with the headachy, dull malady that accompanies a flight over dozens of countries and numerous time zones.

Sleepwalking

Walking or talking while asleep are relatively common sleep disorders. Neither are considered harmful, provided, in the case of sleepwalking., that the sleeper is in a ground floor room that is free of obstacles.

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