Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are a group of conditions that affect the ability to fall asleep or stay asleep, or cause abnormal behaviors during sleep. There are many different types of sleep disorders, and they can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and quality of life. Some common types of sleep disorders include:

  1. Insomnia: A condition characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.
  2. Sleep apnea: A condition in which an individual’s breathing is interrupted during sleep, leading to frequent awakenings throughout the night.
  3. Restless legs syndrome (RLS): A neurological disorder that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in the legs.
  4. Narcolepsy: A neurological disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden, uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep during the day.
  5. Parasomnias: A group of sleep disorders that involve abnormal behaviors during sleep, such as sleepwalking, night terrors, and sleep-related eating disorder.
  6. Circadian rhythm disorders: A group of conditions where there is a disruption in the normal 24-hour cycle of physiological and behavioral processes that govern our sleep-wake cycle.

 

Treatment for sleep disorders varies depending on the specific disorder and the severity of the symptoms. Some common treatments include:

  1. Behavioral changes: This may involve establishing and maintaining a regular sleep-wake schedule, avoiding naps during the day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and practicing relaxation techniques before bed.
  2. Medication: Some medications, such as sleeping pills, may be prescribed to help with sleep.
  3. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP): A treatment for sleep apnea that involves wearing a mask that delivers air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.
  4. Light therapy: This involves exposure to bright light in the morning to help reset the body’s internal clock.
  5. Counseling: Counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy may be useful for individuals with sleep disorders, particularly those who are experiencing stress or anxiety that is contributing to their sleep problems.

Conclusion: Dr. Parikh has expertise in diagnosis and treatment of a number of sleep conditions. She will often often will work closely with your sleep doctor to ensure an integrated approach to your sleep health.

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