Sleep Disorders in Vermont

If you find it challenging to fall asleep at night or consistently feel fatigued during the day, you’re not alone. Sleep disorders afflict one in three individuals at some point in their lives, and approximately half of all adults over the age of 65. From insomnia to sleep apnea, an estimated 50 million Americans grapple with some form of sleep disorder.

Overview of Common Sleep Disorders

Here are some of the most prevalent sleep disorders:

  • Sleep apnea: This disorder is marked by recurring pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions last for more than ten seconds and occur multiple times per hour. Besides disrupting a good night’s sleep, sleep apnea poses a significant health risk.
  • Snoring: While snoring can be bothersome, it can also interrupt your sleep and that of others around you. It occurs when the tongue and soft tissue at the back of the throat relax during sleep, partially obstructing the airway.
  • Insomnia: As one of the most common sleep disorders, insomnia makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. While some individuals experience insomnia for a few nights or weeks, others suffer from this condition chronically for months or even years.
  • Narcolepsy: Typically associated with sleep paralysis, sleep hallucinations, cataplexy, and excessive daytime sleepiness, narcolepsy is both a sleep and neurological disorder. Individuals with narcolepsy experience an almost constant feeling of uncontrollable drowsiness.
  • Sleep deprivation: Lack of adequate sleep affects both cognitive function and brain health. Symptoms can include extreme daytime drowsiness, weight fluctuations, clumsiness, and fatigue.
  • Night terrors: Unlike nightmares that occur during REM sleep, night terrors happen just before the deep dream state of REM sleep. They are characterized by crying, thrashing, or screaming during sleep.
  • Restless leg syndrome (RLS): This sensory disorder triggers an uncomfortable and irresistible urge to move the legs, making it challenging to fall asleep and stay asleep.
  • Circadian rhythm disorders: The term “circadian rhythm” refers to the body’s internal clock, which governs biological functions in relation to time. Circadian rhythm can become misaligned due to various factors such as having a newborn baby, traveling, or job demands.
  • Shift work disorder (SWSD): This sleep disorder affects individuals who work non-traditional hours like night and swing shifts. These irregular working hours conflict with the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythms).

What Triggers Sleep Disorders?

The above are just a few examples of factors that can disrupt your sleep cycle or wakefulness. Nearly half of all people over 65 experience some type of sleep disorder. It remains unclear whether this is a direct result of aging or an effect of medications commonly used by seniors. However, sleep problems also significantly impact younger adults, children, and teenagers.

  • Psychiatric issues: Such as anxiety or depression
  • Physical issues: Such as ulcers, genetics, or aging
  • Medical issues: Such as asthma or certain medications
  • Environmental issues: Such as alcohol consumption or working night shifts

The above are just a few examples of factors that can disrupt your sleep cycle or wakefulness. Nearly half of all people over 65 experience some type of sleep disorder. It remains unclear whether this is a direct result of aging or an effect of medications commonly used by seniors. However, sleep problems also significantly impact younger adults, children, and teenagers.

How Can I Treat a Sleep Disorder?

Given the broad spectrum of sleep disorders, there isn’t a universal remedy that can address every issue. Effective treatments for narcolepsy, for instance, differ significantly from those for insomnia. The key is to accurately identify the problem and then determine the appropriate treatment tailored to the patient’s unique physical condition and lifestyle.

For instance, the first step in treating sleep apnea is to diagnose the condition with a sleep study test. Once confirmed, potential treatments may include:

  • A mouth guard or other snoring remedies
  • CPAP treatment
  • BiPAP treatment

A consultation with a doctor or sleep specialist can help secure an accurate diagnosis of your sleep disorder and devise an effective treatment strategy.

Why Do I Groan When I’m Falling Asleep?

Catathrenia is a condition characterized by nocturnal groaning or moaning during sleep, often quite loudly. Unlike snoring, which occurs during inhalation, groaning happens during exhalation and can last up to 30 seconds each time.

This condition is not related to sleep-talking and generally does not affect the quality of one’s sleep. Although data on catathrenia is limited, some evidence suggests that positive airway pressure (PAP) may help reduce the intensity and frequency of groaning.

How Can I Address Sleep Problems Naturally?

Depending on your specific sleep disorder, you may need to consult with a doctor or sleep specialist to determine the most suitable treatment.

If you find it hard to fall asleep, there are several strategies you can try at home. Over-the-counter sleeping pills can induce drowsiness at night, but they may also cause side effects like grogginess the following day.

Recently, more people have been turning to cannabinoids such as CBD for sleep and insomnia. Derived from marijuana, CBD differs from THC in that it does not produce psychoactive effects or a “high”. However, it may help treat insomnia as well as pain and anxiety.

Some natural tips to fall asleep quickly include ensuring your bedroom is:

  • Cool: Aim to keep your room around 70 degrees for optimal sleep.
  • Quiet: Keep electronic devices off or out of the room. This includes cell phones and TVs.
  • Dark: Close the blinds and turn off the lights.

Why is sleep so important? The ability to get a good night’s rest is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health.

Accumulating a sleep debt or deficit can lead to significant physical or mental fatigue that affects all aspects of your life. If you suffer from chronic sleep problems, consider speaking with a doctor or sleep specialist to start your journey towards recovery and a good night’s rest.

Contact Us Today

If you’re struggling with a sleep disorder, it’s important to seek professional help. An experienced sleep specialist can help identify the nature of your condition and recommend appropriate treatments to ensure you sleep soundly and wake up refreshed.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Contact Us Today

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+1 (802) 503-7092

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300 Interstate Corporate Center
Suite 322
Williston, VT 05495

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