Can Sleep Issues Be Treated? Neurological Sleep Disorders - Neurology

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Sleep issues


I usually go to bed around eleven or twelve o'clock, but no matter how loud the alarm is or if someone calls me, I can't hear it.
I need to take public transportation to school and have to wake up around six o'clock.
This issue has been bothering me for a long time, since about six or seven years ago.
There was a time when I went to sleep between nine and ten o'clock, but the situation remained the same.
Can this problem be resolved with medical treatment? Thank you very much for your response, doctor.

Huang Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/12

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello, Huang: You mentioned that "no matter how loud the alarm clock is or if someone calls, I can't hear it." I suggest you consider wearing a smart wristband to monitor the depth and variations of your sleep.
During light sleep stages, it is easier to wake up.
If you have related concerns, I recommend consulting a sleep medicine specialist for evaluation and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any further questions! Wishing you good health, peace, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi from Taoyuan Medical Center cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/12/12

More Info


Sleep issues can indeed be treated, and understanding the underlying neurological sleep disorders is crucial for effective management. Your situation, where you struggle to wake up despite alarms and external disturbances, suggests that you may be experiencing a form of sleep disorder that could benefit from medical evaluation and intervention.

Sleep disorders encompass a wide range of conditions, including insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy, among others. Each of these disorders has distinct characteristics and requires different approaches for treatment. For instance, insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, while sleep apnea involves interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Given that you have been experiencing these issues for six to seven years, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, particularly one specializing in sleep medicine or neurology, can conduct a thorough evaluation. This may include a detailed sleep history, questionnaires about your sleep patterns, and possibly a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor your sleep stages, breathing patterns, and other physiological parameters during sleep.

In terms of treatment, several options are available depending on the diagnosis. For insomnia, cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) has proven to be effective. This therapy focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sleep difficulties. Additionally, sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants before bedtime, can significantly improve sleep quality.

If your sleep issues are related to conditions like sleep apnea, treatment may involve lifestyle changes, the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, or other interventions aimed at improving airflow during sleep. For restless leg syndrome, medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain may be prescribed.

It is also important to consider the role of stress and anxiety in sleep disturbances. Many individuals find that their sleep issues are exacerbated by psychological factors. In such cases, addressing these underlying issues through therapy or counseling can be beneficial.

In summary, your sleep problems are not something you have to endure alone. Seeking medical advice is a crucial step toward understanding and treating your condition. A healthcare provider can help identify the specific nature of your sleep disorder and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your needs. Remember, good sleep is essential for overall health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being, so taking action to address these issues is vital.

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