Sleep Center

Sleeping is a basic human need, much like breathing, and vital for well-being. Yet, up to 70 million Americans have chronic sleep disorders, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

Insomnia is defined as the ongoing difficulty to fall asleep or remain asleep – three times a week or more – despite being sleepy and having plenty of time to snooze. 

Different types of sleep disorders

There are several different types of sleep-wake conditions, and insomnia is (by far) the most common. According to the National Sleep Foundation, these disorders can contribute to other medical problems, and may require medication or other interventions. 

• Narcolepsy – irregular sleep-wake-sleep cycling
• Parasomnia – abnormal behaviors like sleep walking
• Restless leg syndrome – an unpleasant nervous system disorder
• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – breathing may labor or stop

Could you have sleep apnea?

The National Sleep Foundation estimates that more than 18 million American adults suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, which can be a dangerous condition to live with. In some cases, exhausted people who have sleep apnea can nod off while they’re driving or managing other daily tasks, like working. 

With OSA, breathing is constantly interrupted during sleep, occurring when muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open during sleep. A combination of disturbed sleep and lack of oxygen (from the airway repeatedly closing) may lead to high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease and mood problems. 

“How can I start sleeping better?”

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) considers sleeplessness and sleep deprivation a public health problem. ​​Sleep deficiency can interfere with work, school, driving and social interaction. Patients who don’t sleep consistently 6-8 hours per night over the long term, may have trouble learning, reacting and focusing. 

Research from NIH shows that getting enough quality sleep at the right times is vital for personal safety, emotional health, physical fitness and overall quality of life. People who experience issues with sleep or daytime energy should consult with their doctor to be referred for an overnight sleep lab, or your personalized overnight sleep study.