Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea refers to non-breathing episodes during sleep. Loud, habitual snoring, accompanied by gasping, choking and pauses in breathing can indicate sleep apnea. This is a potentially life-threatening condition that does not allow a person with obstructive sleep apnea to receive enough oxygen during sleep. If untreated, it can result in excessive daytime sleepiness, high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke. Obstructive sleep apnea can be caused by relaxation of the upper airway muscles during sleep and subsequent blockage of the airway by tonsils, uvula or fatty tissue.
Insomnia
Insomnia refers to a persistent difficulty in falling asleep or staying asleep. Insomnia can result from biological, physical, psychological and environmental factors. It is a symptom, not a cause, of some condition that interferes with sleep. Sleep can be delayed, disrupted, restless or limited.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a lifelong neurological disorder primarily characterized by sudden, uncontrollable sleep attacks and persistent daytime sleepiness. Though the illness is lifelong, the symptoms for most narcoleptics can be managed with the careful balance of medications, educational support and personal care.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless leg syndrome is marked by uncomfortable leg sensations that occur continually while the body is at rest. It may be a central nervous system disorder and occasionally is associated with iron-deficiency anemia, pregnancy or diabetes. A person with RLS may experience the urge to move the legs which is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in the foot, calf or upper leg. RLS is the basic cause of sleep deprivation for an estimated four million American adults.