Sleep Disorder
Clinically, sleep disorders are characterised by disturbances in sleep quantity, quality, timing, or behaviour. According to diagnostic systems such as the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, these conditions cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, educational, or other important areas of functioning. They may arise due to psychological, neurological, medical, or environmental factors.
Common Types of Sleep Disorders
1. Insomnia Disorder
Insomnia Disorder is the most common sleep disorder. It involves difficulty falling
asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and being unable to return to sleep.
Common Symptoms
- Trouble falling asleep at night
- Frequent awakenings
- Early morning awakening
- Daytime fatigue and irritability
- Poor concentration and reduced productivity
Clinical Features
- Persistent sleep dissatisfaction occurring at least three nights per week
- Present for at least three months
- Causes significant distress or impairment
2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during
sleep due to airway blockage.
Common Symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
Clinical Features
- Recurrent episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep
- Fragmented and non-restorative sleep
- Increased risk of cardiovascular complications
3. Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a neurological condition characterised by overwhelming daytime sleepiness
and sudden sleep attacks.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden, uncontrollable episodes of sleep
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Sleep paralysis
- Vivid dream-like hallucinations
- Sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy)
Clinical Features
- Dysregulation of sleep-wake cycles
- Intrusion of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep into wakefulness
4. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Restless Legs Syndrome involves an uncomfortable sensation in the legs accompanied by
an irresistible urge to move them, especially at night.
Common Symptoms
- Tingling, crawling, or itching sensations in the legs
- Urge to move the legs for relief
- Worsening symptoms during rest or at bedtime
- Difficulty falling asleep
Clinical Features
- Symptoms intensify in the evening or at night
- Relief occurs with movement
- Often associated with iron deficiency or neurological conditions
5. Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders
Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders occur when the body’s internal clock is misaligned
with the external environment.
Common Examples
- Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder (sleeping late and waking late)
- Shift Work Sleep Disorder
- Jet Lag Disorder
Clinical Features
- Persistent disruption of sleep timing
- Difficulty maintaining regular sleep schedules
- Daytime fatigue and reduced alertness
6. Parasomnias
Parasomnias are unusual behaviours or experiences that occur during sleep.
Common Examples
- Sleepwalking (Somnambulism)
- Night Terrors
- Nightmares
- Sleep Talking
- REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
Clinical Features
- Undesirable physical or emotional events during sleep or arousal
- More common in children but may occur in adults
Common Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
Night-Time Symptoms
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Loud snoring or breathing interruptions
- Restlessness during sleep
- Unusual movements or behaviours
- Frequent awakenings
Daytime Symptoms
- Persistent fatigue and drowsiness
- Irritability and mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating and remembering
- Reduced performance at work or school
- Headaches and lack of motivation
When to Seek Professional Help
Consult a healthcare professional if:
- Sleep problems persist for more than two weeks.
- You experience excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Loud snoring or breathing pauses are observed.
- Sleep difficulties interfere with daily functioning.
- You experience unusual behaviours during sleep.
- Fatigue affects your mood, work, or relationships.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term health complications
