Center for Sleep Disorders Questions and Answers

Many different types of doctors can treat sleep disorders, and depending on what is causing your sleep disorders will determine which specialist you see. If your sleep disorders are associated with blocked airflow, teeth grinding (bruxism) or other breathing problems, you will likely be referred to a dentist, as dentists who are qualified to treat sleep disorders specialize in these symptoms. If your sleep disorders are caused by stress or other psychological factors, you will likely be referred to a psychiatrist.

Sleep specialists come from a variety of different medical backgrounds and often practice another type of medicine. Medical professionals that specialize in treating sleep disorders can include primary care doctors, sleep specialists, ear, nose and throat doctors (otolaryngologists), neurologists, psychiatrists, dentists and surgeons.

The five major sleep disorders include the following:

Insomnia — The term insomnia refers to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. There are two different types of insomnia, transient (short-term) insomnia and chronic insomnia.

Transient insomnia often occurs due to a high stress event, such as a traumatic experience or losing a loved one, but can also occur during shift work or from jet lag. Transient insomnia is characterized by the inability to relax and disturbed sleep, and there may be no identifiable cause for the sleeplessness. Chronic insomnia, on the other hand, is characterized by recurrent episodes of non-restorative sleep, and difficulties falling and staying asleep. To be classified as chronic, symptoms must be present for at least one month.

Sleep Apnea — Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is a common sleep disorder. Many cases of OSA are considered serious, and some may even be life-threatening without the proper treatment. During sleep apnea, airways become repeatedly blocked, and breathing often stops. When this occurs, people commonly make choking noises or snore loudly and will wake up if their body and brain become deprived of oxygen. This may happen once or twice a night, although in severe cases it can occur hundreds of times a night.

Narcolepsy — Narcolepsy causes an individual to suddenly fall asleep. This can happen at any time, regardless of location or setting. Oftentimes, people with narcolepsy will fall asleep uncontrollably during unusual circumstances, such as while talking or eating. Narcoleptic people are unable to regulate their sleep-wake cycle.

Restless Legs Syndrome — Restless Legs Syndrome, or RLS, is an uncontrollable urge or desire to move or reposition one’s legs while at rest. Other symptoms may also be present, such as an unpleasant aching, tingling, burning, or a crawling sensation on or under the skin. Sometimes these uncomfortable sensations can be felt in other body parts, such as the hands or arms.

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder — People with REM sleep behavior disorder lack the muscle paralysis that most people experience during sleep. This causes people to act out their dreams in their sleep, and can result in sleep walking, also known as somnambulism. This condition is taken very seriously if it puts the lives of the patient or those around them in danger.

If you or someone you love is looking for a top-rated center for sleep disorders, come to Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders for a higher level of care. Our kind and compassionate professionals are dedicated to improving the quality of your sleep and your overall quality of life. With locations all across the US, we have a clinic near you! Call us today to book an appointment!