Dr. Clarence G. Glenn Sleep Center

What is a sleep disorder?

A variety of sleep disorders affect millions of people each year. A husband who chronically snores is just as likely to have a disorder as child who hasn’t slept in days. Often, patients are unaware they have a sleeping disorder. Common sleep disorders include insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy and restless leg syndrome.

Is it time for a Sleep Study?

Any one of these sleep disorders can—and do—cause sleep deprivation. As a result, you may experience one or a combination of the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• More frequent illness
• Irritability or personality change
• Impaired concentration and memory
• Reduced attention span
• Loss of productivity
• Depression

While some of these symptoms may be tolerated without medical treatment, they can be potentially dangerous. Drowsy drivers are a main cause of motor vehicle and on-the-job accidents. Sleep apnea can also contribute to stroke, heart problems and high blood pressure.

Sleep disorders can often be corrected by making simple lifestyle changes. However, if you have tried to improve your sleep without success and are experiencing any one or combination of the above symptoms, it may be time to see your physician about a sleep study.