Sleep disorders
Too little sleep can create a "sleep debt." If the debt becomes too great, problems may result.
Although there are more than 80 types of sleep disorders, the most common include: sleep apnea, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder and narcolepsy.
Learn more about sleep problems from Allina Sleep Centers...
Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder in which you stop breathing while asleep. There are two types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when air cannot flow into or out of your nose or mouth. This is the most common type of sleep apnea.
- Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain doesn't send the right signals to your breathing muscles.
Insomnia
If you have insomnia, you may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up early in the morning.
Sleep quiz
Do I have a sleep problem?
Conduct your own sleep research. Ask yourself these five questions.
| Yes | No | |
| Do you snore loudly? | ||
| Do you stop breathing or gasp for breath during sleep? | ||
| Do you feel drowsy or doze off while watching TV, reading, driving, or at other times during the day? | ||
| Do you have trouble getting all the sleep you need three nights a week or more? | ||
| Do you experience unpleasant tingling feelings or nervousness in your legs when trying to sleep? |
If you answer "yes" to one or more questions, you may have a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea or insomnia.
Don't wait any longer. Make an appointment to see a specialist at your nearest Allina Sleep Center.
Reviewed by: Kristy Rowe, manager, cardiopulmonary services, Buffalo Hospital
First Published: 08/15/2007
Last Reviewed: 10/27/2010