TROUBLE SLEEPING? You might have a sleep disorder.

But don't keep suffering. Here's how to tell if you have a sleep disorder, and what to do about it.

By Ngozika Orjioke, MD

Covenant Pulmonary Critical Care

It’s late at night, and you’re staring at the ceiling, unable to sleep. Sound familiar?

While an occasional restless night is normal, if you find that you’re continually having trouble falling or staying asleep, you might have a sleep disorder. And you wouldn’t be alone. More than 50 million Americans have a sleep disorder, and many of them don’t even realize it.

But if you are having problems sleeping, don’t just suffer through it. Untreated sleep disorders can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke. It’s important to get diagnosed and treated for your overall health and longevity.

So how do you know if you have a sleep disorder, or if it’s something else? Here are some common sleep disorders, along with ways to test for them. And if you’re not sure, ask your physician.

Common Sleep Disorders

Insomnia: Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder. You may have difficulty falling or staying asleep. This can lead to daytime fatigue, mood disturbances, and trouble concentrating.

Sleep Apnea: This is a serious condition where you temporarily stop breathing during sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the throat muscles relax too much and block the airway. This can cause loud snoring, gasping for air and extreme tiredness during the day.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): RLS is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, usually due to uncomfortable sensations. It typically happens in the evening or nighttime hours when you’re sitting or lying down.

Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy involves overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep. People with narcolepsy often find it difficult to stay awake for long periods, regardless of the circumstances.

Parasomnias: These include abnormal behaviors during sleep such as sleepwalking, night terrors and bedwetting. They can be disruptive and even dangerous.

Circadian Rhythm Disorders: These disorders occur when your internal body clock is out of sync with the external environment. Examples include jet lag and shift work disorder.

You might think you have insomnia, but the real culprit is sleep apnea.

Get a Sleep Evaluation

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it might be time to consider a sleep evaluation, which can pinpoint the exact cause of your sleep problems. For instance, you might think you have insomnia, but the real culprit is sleep apnea.

There are two main types of sleep tests: home sleep tests and tests in a sleep lab. Both have their advantages and are based on individual needs. Talk to your doctor about what type of evaluation is appropriate for you.

Treatment for your Sleep Disorder

Once you have an accurate diagnosis, your doctor can develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This might mean lifestyle changes, medication or medical devices – such as a CPAP machine for sleep apnea.

Get Help Today

If you suspect you have a sleep disorder, don’t ignore it. Sleep is a vital component of your overall health, and getting the right amount and quality of sleep can transform your life. You should talk to your doctor, so he or she can determine if you need a sleep test.

Whether you opt for a sleep test at home or in the lab, the important thing is to take action. A good night’s sleep isn’t just a dream—it’s achievable with the right diagnosis and treatment.

So, don’t wait—talk to your doctor today and take the first step toward getting more rest at night and feeling better during the day.

Considering a home sleep test? We can help. Schedule a consultation with me to discuss your options.

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Ngozika Orjioke, MD, FCCP, is a board-certified physician in Pulmonary and Critical Care in metro Atlanta. With more than 30 years of experience, she is devoted to helping her patients in the treatment of lung-related illnesses, such as asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, tobacco use disorder, HIV-related lung disease and more. She is committed to improving the health of her community, and provides exceptional and culturally sensitive care to every patient. She appears on the American Lung Association’s list of Trusted Organizations in the Black Community, and is ranked in the top 25 by U.S. News among 358 pulmonologists in Atlanta. Dr. Orjioke is affiliated with Southern Regional Medical Center.