What Are the Different Types of Sleep Disorders

There are numerous different types of sleep disorders. Some may be caused by other underlying health conditions.

Insomnia

Insomnia refers to the inability to fall asleep or to remain asleep. It can be caused by jet lag, stress and anxiety, hormones, or digestive problems. It may also be a symptom of another condition. Insomnia can be very problematic for your overall health and quality of life, potentially causing:

• Depression
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Weight gain
• Impaired work or school performance

Unfortunately, insomnia is extremely common in the United States. Approximately 50 percent of American adults experience it at some point in their lives. The disorder is most prevalent among older adults and women.

Insomnia is usually classified as one of three types:

• Chronic, which is when insomnia happens on a regular basis for at least one month
• Intermittent, which is when insomnia occurs periodically
• Transient, which is when insomnia lasts for just a few nights at a time

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. This is a serious medical condition that causes the body to take in less oxygen. It can also cause you to wake up during the night.

Parasomnias

Parasomnias are a class of sleep disorders that cause abnormal movements and behaviors during sleep. They include:

• Sleepwalking
• Sleep talking
• Groaning
• Nightmares
• Bedwetting
• Teeth grinding or jaw clenching

Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is an overwhelming need to move the legs. This urge is sometimes accompanied by a tingling sensation in the legs. While these symptoms can occur during the day, they are most prevalent at night. RLS is often associated with certain health conditions, including ADHD and Parkinson’s disease, but the exact cause isn’t always known.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is characterized by “sleep attacks” that occur during the day. This means that you will suddenly feel extremely tired and fall asleep without warning. The disorder can also cause sleep paralysis, which may make you physically unable to move right after waking up. Although narcolepsy may occur on its own, it is also associated with certain neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis.