Quality sleep is essential for maintaining health and longevity, but there are certain conditions that can make it difficult to get sufficient sleep or may even lead to safety concerns. If you or a loved one struggles with sleep, here’s a guide to some common sleep disorders and how they are generally treated. 

What Are Sleep Disorders?

Sleep disorders include a wide range of conditions that affect a person’s ability to get enough restful sleep to function at full capacity during their waking hours. One of the most common is insomnia, or the inability to fall or stay asleep. There’s also narcolepsy, which can cause people to fall asleep suddenly. There's also sleep apnea, which can cause patients to stop breathing throughout the night as the airway becomes obstructed. Other conditions include sleepwalking, restless leg syndrome, and parasomnia. 

How Are Sleep Disorders Managed?

Many sleep disorders can be treated at home with simple routine changes or medical devices. However, it is important to first consult a medical professional who can officially diagnose the correct condition. Some sleep disorders are connected; for example, people sometimes believe they experience overtiredness, but it is sometimes caused by sleep apnea interfering with nighttime sleep. 

Your doctor may discuss your symptoms or perform an overnight sleep study where your activity is monitored to determine the best course of action. Some patients may benefit from stress reduction techniques like meditation or sticking to a consistent evening routine. Others may require medical devices like a CPAP machine, which keeps the airway clear for patients experiencing sleep apnea. 

If you’re concerned about sleep disorders or want to learn more about treatments like CPAP machines, contact Hometown Medical in Flowood, MS. The medical supplies provider offers a huge array of quality devices, along with a friendly team who can help you understand the options. Visit the website to browse a full list of products and services. To speak with a team member, call (601) 933-4699.