According to the Sleep Wellness Institute, more than 100 million Americans suffer some form of sleeping disorder. Some sleeping disorders can be minor like insomnia or night terrors; others such as sleep apnea can have life-threatening risks. Therefore, it is important that you research your symptoms, get tested promptly and continue working toward getting a good night's sleep.
Sleep Apnea
Approximately 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. According to the Sleep Wellness Institute, around 38,000 people die each year, due to complications from the disorder. During an episode of sleep apnea, you may stop breathing while asleep, and this cycle may repeat itself several times throughout the night. The main symptoms of sleep apnea include: excessive snoring, obesity, severe morning headaches, and reduced alertness. If you suspect you may have the disorder, it is imperative that you get tested. Left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, stoke and even death.
Insomnia
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, an estimated 60 million Americans suffer from insomnia regularly, and it affects around 40 percent of women and 30 percent of men. Mild insomnia can be corrected by improving sleep habits and for short-term insomnia, physicians often will prescribe a mild sleeping pill.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Around 12 million Americans suffer from RLS. RLS causes you to experience unwanted crawling and tingling sensations along your legs and feet, and the only way to find relief is to constantly move them. It is hard to relax because your legs always want to be moving, which makes sleep and restful nights very difficult.
Narcolepsy
Around 250,000 Americans are affected by narcolepsy. Even if you get enough rest at night, with narcolepsy, you may experience excessive tiredness during the day, often without warning. You may experience hallucinations and become emotional and irrational during your sleep attacks.
Night Terrors
Around 15 percent of children experience night terrors, starting around the toddler and preschool years. Children may jump out of bed, screaming and crying, and be confused, but never truly awaken. They will not acknowledge your presence or comfort because they are not aware of you. Do not be alarmed; once the episode is over and the child is resting peacefully again, she will not remember her night terror.
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