Do you have trouble sleeping at night? Everyone has sleep problems occasionally due to stress at work or at home, but when you lack of sleep is consistent a more severe condition could be present.
A sleep disorder is not something to be taken lightly and can sometimes be hard to detect and diagnose.
Loss of sleep can be damaging to your health and affect every part of your life.
People who do not get enough sleep are not as alert and are at a higher risk for job related accidents and being ill.
They do not perform as well on the job and the symptoms they experience can be debilitating.
If you believe you are having sleep issues, it is a good idea to see a doctor to determine why you are having the problem.
Sleep study doctors specialize in all aspects of sleep medicine and can go over the symptoms you are experiencing.
You many feel more comfortable discussing the situation with your normal doctor first.
This can be very helpful as well because a medical doctor can run test to see if other medical conditions are affecting your sleep.
Some disorders are a direct result of underlying medical problems and treating them can alleviate the symptoms and improve your sleep.
If you decide to see your doctor and they find no apparent reason for the symptoms you have discussed, they will refer you to a specialist.
Sleep study doctors have the ability to run tests in a controlled environment and actually monitor you while sleeping.
They can record brain activity and observe each stage of sleep you go through.
This information can be very helpful in determining if you are suffering from a sleep disorder and what that disorder is.
Treatments vary depending on what the disorder is.
More serious conditions such as apnea require devices such as mouth guards or masks that force the airway to stay open.
These devices allow you to breathe continuously throughout the night.
Other disorders such as insomnia and restless leg syndrome may require medication.
Meditation and other relaxation therapies have also been used to make sleeping easier and eliminate minor insomnia and other issues.
The first step is getting evaluated by a professional and determining if a disorder is present.
After you have been properly assessed, a doctor can go over your treatment options with you.
Do not continue to suffer each night and struggle to get through each day.
Sleep is vital for your health and not getting enough can prevent you from having the quality of life you desire.
Pay attention to your sleep patterns and the symptoms that are present.
Take notes if necessary to remember what is happening each night.
Then take the time to discuss what is going on with a doctor or specialist.
You will be amazed at how better you feel when your sleep problems are resolved and you have the energy every day to do the things you need to and want to do.