Maintaining optimal physical and mental health includes getting enough sleep, but certain disorders can interrupt that important rest time. Medical professionals and psychologists know that adults need between seven and nine hours of quality sleep per night. If you experience constant disruption during the night, you may have a sleep disorder. Luckily, many common disorders can be resolved with proper diagnosis and treatment. Find the most typical signs of sleep disorders below. 

3 Symptoms Psychologists See in Patients With Sleep Disorders

1. Difficulty Falling or Staying Asleep

If you have insomnia, you might have trouble falling or staying asleep. Numerous circumstances can cause insomnia, including anxiety and stress, pain, hormonal imbalance, digestive problems, or depression. If you have insomnia, you can consult with a psychologist to see if you can find the root cause. 

2. Trouble Staying Awake

A major sign of hypersomnia is that you cannot remain awake in the daytime, or you need naps frequently. Another sign is feeling as if you are paralyzed when you awaken. Side effects of certain medications, including those for allergies, can cause daytime drowsiness.

A form of hypersomnia, known as narcolepsy, causes people to fall asleep without warning at any time. This can be dangerous, especially when driving or operating machinery. Psychologists often see this sleep disorder in patients with muscular dystrophy or other neurological conditions.

3. Breathing Cessation

If your breathing stops for ten seconds or more while sleeping, you may have sleep apnea. With obstructive sleep apnea, your relaxed throat muscles block the airway while you sleep. You may snore, snort, or make choking sounds that interrupt your sleep. Allergies, respiratory problems, or obesity are a few causes of this disorder. Central sleep apnea, a less common condition, occurs when the brain doesn’t respond while you breathe. 

If you experience sleep disorder symptoms, a psychologist at the practice of Feinberg & Associates in Lexington, KY, can work to help you obtain relief. With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Feinberg provides clients with a wide range of mental health services. This team has treatment plans for depression and handles each case with compassion and professionalism. Visit their website to learn more about their services or call (859) 233-3390 to schedule a confidential appointment.