Sleep-Wake Disorders
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a condition where individuals have an uncontrollable urge to sleep. People with narcolepsy may also experience sudden episodes of muscle weakness, known as cataplexy. Additionally, they are prone to hypnagogic hallucinations, which occur as they are falling asleep, and hypnopompic hallucinations, which happen upon waking up. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and functioning.
Insomnia Disorder
Insomnia disorder is characterized by difficulty obtaining enough sleep to feel rested, despite having the opportunity to sleep. While occasional sleep problems are common, insomnia becomes a disorder when it persists and causes significant distress or impairment over time.
Hypersomnolence
Hypersomnolence disorder is marked by persistent excessive sleepiness even after a sufficient amount of sleep during the main sleep period. Individuals with this condition may find themselves unexpectedly falling asleep during the day in inappropriate situations, such as at work or school.
Breathing-Related Sleep Disorders
Breathing-related sleep disorders involve abnormalities in breathing during sleep, such as sleep apnea. These conditions cause brief interruptions in sleep, leading to issues like insomnia and daytime sleepiness.
Parasomnias
Binge eating disorder is characterized by episodes of consuming large amounts of food within a short period, typically a couple of hours. Individuals with this disorder often feel a lack of control over their eating habits. Binge eating episodes can be triggered by various emotions such as happiness, anxiety, boredom, or stress.
Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them to alleviate these feelings. People with this condition often describe sensations like tugging, crawling, burning, or creeping in their legs. These sensations can disrupt sleep as individuals feel compelled to move their legs excessively to find relief.
