Sleep disorders and their symptoms

Sleep disorders affect millions of people and can have a significant impact on daily life. Whether it is difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling unrested even after a full night of sleep, sleep disorders can disrupt physical and mental well-being.

In this article, leading consultant psychiatrist in liaison and neuropsychiatry Dr Mohan Rathnaiah identifies the symptoms of various sleep disorders and discusses how identifying them is key to seeking appropriate treatment and improving overall health.

What are the common symptoms of sleep disorders?

• Insomnia: People with insomnia often find it difficult to fall asleep or wake up frequently during the night. Symptoms include:
  • Difficulty falling asleep despite feeling tired
  • Waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep
  • Feeling restless or anxious all the time
  • Fatigue or irritability during the day

• Sleep apnoea: This condition involves breathing interruptions during sleep, which can lead to poor sleep quality and various health issues. Symptoms may include:
  • Loud snoring or gasping for air during sleep
  • Pauses in breathing that wake the person up
  • Morning headaches or a dry mouth
  • Feeling tired or unrested despite sleeping for long hours

• Restless legs syndrome (RLS): RLS causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, leading to an irresistible urge to move them. Symptoms include:
  • Tingling or crawling sensations in the legs, especially in the evening
  • Relief only by moving the legs or walking
  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep due to leg discomfort
  • Feeling anxious or irritable due to the constant need to move

• Narcolepsy: This disorder involves excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of falling asleep. Symptoms include:
  • Sudden sleep attacks during the day, even in the middle of activities
  • Muscle weakness or paralysis during sleep or upon waking
  • Difficulty staying awake during the day
  • Feeling anxious or unable to focus due to constant fatigue

What’s the impact of sleep disorders?

Sleep disorders can severely affect a person's quality of life. Feeling restless or anxious all the time can lead to problems in concentration, memory, and overall productivity. Additionally, untreated sleep disorders may increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and depression. Seeking medical advice is essential for managing sleep-related issues and improving overall health.

Looking for expert psychiatric support regarding sleep disorders? Arrange a consultation with Mr Rathnaiah via his Top Doctors profile.