Sleep-Wake Disorders
Sleep-related difficulties affect many people. Sleep disorders are a disruption in an individual’s sleep quality, timing and duration of sleep hours. These sleep pattern conditions negatively impact overall health. Signs of sleep disorders are disrupted sleep, an irregular wake cycle and general sleep challenges (falling asleep and staying asleep). Sleep-disordered individuals appear sleepy and unrested during the day.
Sleep disorders are often the side effects of medications, substance abuse, depression or other previously undetected illnesses, such as heart disease, lung disease, nerve disorders and general pain. They are also linked to medical conditions, genetics, aging, diet and an irregular schedule.
As chronic diseases have assumed an increasingly common role in premature death and illness, interest in the role of sleep health in the development and management of chronic diseases has grown. Notably, insufficient sleep has been linked to the development and management of a number of chronic diseases and conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and depression.
To learn more about the different types of sleep and wake disorders, please visit the menu on the left. There, you will find detailed information about causes, symptoms and risk factors, as well as diagnosis and treatment plans to help improve your sleep habits.