Are Sleeping Problems Hereditary?

Some sleeping problems certainly can be hereditary, yes. In fact, there are some well-documented familial and twin sleep disorder studies which say that genetics is a factor. Currently, a few sleep disorders have an established genetic basis. These are fatal familial insomnia, familial advanced sleep-phase syndrome, chronic primary insomnia, and narcolepsy with cataplexy.

Insomnia is quite common, and yes, it can be hereditary. Also, poor sleep can actually interrupt the normal function of your genes, so this can complicate matters further.

Many sleeping problems aren’t hereditary, so before you blame your parents, you should have your sleeping problems assessed by a proper professional!

Yes, absolutely it can be serious. Insomnia affects 6 to 10% of adults, is the most common sleep disorder, and can have serious effects on a patient. Commonly, the condition can go untreated, and the consequences can be severe.

Insomnia has been linked to high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, diabetes, and other conditions. These conditions are chronic, which means they’re incurable, so they’re very serious. Additionally, chronic insomnia can cause significant symptoms including problems with memory, mood, and concentration. These symptoms can affect everyday life and be quite difficult to deal with. With professional assistance, however, it’s possible to treat insomnia and many other sleeping problems, including hereditary ones.

A sleeping problem like insomnia can be treated in a number of ways, such as with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and certain medications. It’s also possible to treat some sleep issues with home remedies like physical activity and avoiding caffeine. However, if you’ve been experiencing a sleeping problem for a while, or if you suspect your problem could be chronic or hereditary, then you really should seek professional assessment and assistance.

Here at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders, we receive many patients with different sleeping problems like snoring, bruxism (teeth grinding), sleep apnea, TMJ disorder, and insomnia. For many of our patients, we’ve found that simple oral appliance therapy can help a great deal. Often it’s a better option over CPAP therapy which is commonly used to treat sleep apnea. The mouthpiece involved in oral appliance therapy is much more comfortable for patients than the machinery used in CPAP therapy.

Some patients may also benefit from having a sleep study done. We can help with this as well as oral appliance therapy and other treatments here at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders.

If you believe you could benefit from our services and a comprehensive analysis of your sleep, then you’re more than welcome to contact us here at our clinic. We have multiple locations in Bloomington IL, Peoria – Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX, and Wausau WI, so we ask that you see our Appointments page for their addresses and contact information. Alternatively, you can call us.