Sleeplessness and Circadian Rhythm Disorder Topic Guide

Parasomnias are sleep problems that significantly disrupt the lives of those who suffer them. Parasomnias include speech and movements during sleep, sleep walking, night terrors, sleep paralysis , and abnomalities in the natural stages of sleep, among other problems. These problems are diagnosed through polysomnography (sleep testing), and can be treated with a combination of medications, sleep hygiene depending on the particular disorder.

Insomnia affects most people at some point in their lifetime. Insomnia is actually a symptom of a condition, disease, or situation. Non-medical treatment of insomnia includes: sleep hygiene, relaxation therapy, stimulus control, and sleep restriction. There are many medications that can be prescribed to a person with insomnia.

Insomnia is a common problem for many people. Insomnia can be primary or secondary. Secondary causes of insomnia include medications, diseases, environmental factors, and pregnancy. Non-drug, home remedies, and OTC and prescription drugs that treat insomnia include: Sleeping pills Melatonin Sleep hygiene education Biofeedback Relaxation therapy Common side effects of sleeping pills include: Impaired coordination, balance, or mental alertness Depression Suicidal thoughts

Primary insomnia is sleeplessness that cannot be attributed to a medical, psychiatric, or environmental cause (such as drug abuse or medications). Symptoms of primary insomnia include: Difficulty falling asleep Frequently awakening during the night Atypical reactions to sleep medications Tense Treatment may include lifestyle changes, therapy, medication, or a combination of these.

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep disorders caus disruption in the REM stage of sleep. In such disorders, the REM is deficient or absent, along with the normal paralysis that goes with it. This allows the sufferer to act out his dreams, often causing injury. REM sleep disorder can be a side effect of medication or a symptom of a serious neurological disease. Clonazepam and tricyclic antidepressants have proved effective in treating REM sleep disorders.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is tied to seasons of the year. Symptoms include: depressed mood, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and poor concentration. Treatment may incorporate bright-light therapy and antidepressants.

Sleep and sleep disorders may be affected by a variety of factors. Learn about the different types of sleep disorders as well as symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

Sleep is defined as a state of unconsciousness from which a person can be aroused. In this state, the brain is relatively more responsive to internal stimuli than external stimuli. Sleep deprivation has many deleterious effects on the body. Sleep apnea and sleep paralysis are two common kinds of sleep disorders. Several activities can help one to fall asleep fast.

Sleep problems are common among people as they age. People tend to sleep less in later years, but other sleep issues can be caused by a variety of medical symptoms and drug side effects. Daytime sleepiness and fatigue and reduce the quality of life for senior citizens. Medications and sleep hygeine, or a combination of the two, can help.

Sleep disorders are more common in people with cancer for several reasons: Tumors can cause sleep problems, Cancer drugs can cause sleep problems, Staying in the hospital can make it hard to sleep, Stress from cancer diagnosis can make it hard to sleep. Good sleep is crucial for healing and functioning, so insomnia, parasomnias, or hypersomina should be addressed as part of cancer treatment.