BRAIN TO BODY® SITE GLOSSARY
Sleep disorder
Sleep disorders encompass a broad range of conditions that affect the ability to sleep well on a regular basis. These disorders can significantly impact one's health, safety, and quality of life, leading to problems such as daytime fatigue, reduced energy, difficulty concentrating, and mood disturbances. Common sleep disorders include insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep), sleep apnea (disrupted breathing during sleep), restless legs syndrome (RLS), and narcolepsy (excessive, uncontrollable daytime sleepiness).
The causes of sleep disorders can be varied, including physiological factors, neurological conditions, mental health issues like anxiety and depression, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. The consequences of untreated sleep disorders extend beyond tiredness, affecting cardiovascular health, metabolism, brain function, and emotional balance.
Diagnosis of sleep disorders typically involves a comprehensive evaluation, including a medical history, physical examination, and possibly sleep studies such as polysomnography. Treatment strategies are diverse, ranging from medical treatments and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices for sleep apnea to cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia. Lifestyle and environmental changes, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants before bedtime, are also crucial components of managing sleep disorders.
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