Sleep Disorders - Dr. Sachin Mangla

Sleep is a fundamental human need, crucial for maintaining physical and mental health. However, many people suffer from sleep disorders, which can severely impact their quality of life. Sleep disorders encompass a range of conditions that affect the ability to sleep well on a regular basis.

Common Types of Sleep Disorders

1. Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
2. Sleep Apnea: Breathing interruptions during sleep.
3. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Uncomfortable sensations in the legs, causing an urge to move them.
4. Narcolepsy: Excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks.
5. Circadian Rhythm Disorders: Disruptions in the body's internal clock, such as jet lag or shift work disorder.

Symptoms of Sleep Disorders

• Insomnia: Trouble falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, waking up too early, and feeling unrefreshed.
• Sleep Apnea: Loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, waking up with a dry mouth or headache, and daytime sleepiness.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Itching, tingling, or crawling sensations in the legs, which worsen at night.
• Narcolepsy: Sudden sleep episodes during the day, loss of muscle control (cataplexy), and hallucinations.
• Circadian Rhythm Disorders: Difficulty falling asleep or waking up at the desired time, daytime fatigue, and mood disturbances.

Causes of Sleep Disorders

• Insomnia: Stress, anxiety, depression, poor sleep habits, and certain medications.
• Sleep Apnea: Obesity, enlarged tonsils, or structural issues in the airway.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Genetic factors, iron deficiency, and certain chronic diseases.
• Narcolepsy: Genetic predisposition and abnormalities in the brain that regulate REM sleep.
• Circadian Rhythm Disorders: Shift work, travel across time zones, and irregular sleep schedules.

Treatment:

1. Lifestyle Changes: Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding caffeine and electronics before bed.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): Helps address thoughts and behaviors that cause insomnia.
3. Medications: Prescribed for conditions like narcolepsy and severe insomnia.
4. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A common treatment for sleep apnea.
5. Iron Supplements: For those with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) caused by iron deficiency.
6. Chronotherapy: Gradually adjusting sleep time to treat circadian rhythm disorders.

Importance of Seeking Professional Help
If you suspect you have a sleep disorder, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. At The Brain Blossom Clinic, Dr. Sachin Mangla and our team specialize in diagnosing and treating various sleep disorders. We offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve better sleep and improve your overall health.