When Should You See a Doctor for Your Sleep Problems?

Everyone has sleep issues, right? Today, it’s almost a badge of honor to compare notes with co-workers about who works the hardest on the least amount of sleep. While sleep issues and sleep deprivation are almost normalized today, nothing is normal or healthy about not getting enough sleep. Trouble falling or staying asleep can impact almost every aspect of your life, causing long-term health complications. Problems sleeping may also hint at an underlying or undiagnosed sleep disorder.

When should you see a doctor for your sleep problems? The answer may be right now. At Silent Night Therapy, our sleep professionals want to help you understand when to address sleep concerns with your doctor and what signs may indicate an undiagnosed sleep disorder.

When Should You Talk to Your Doctor About Sleep Problems?

Occasional sleep disturbances are typical. What’s not normal are consistent periods of tiredness, sleeplessness, or trouble falling or staying asleep. Typically, chronic insomnia is characterized as sleep disturbances occurring three or more nights per week for over three months. Problems sleeping can impact nearly every aspect of your life, causing changes in mood, problems concentrating, anxiety, depression, and irritability. Constant fatigue can also increase your chances of being involved in car collisions and workplace accidents.

Most people don’t realize sleeplessness can lead to significant chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Lack of sleep may also increase a person’s risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease later in life. There is a lot at stake when you aren’t getting enough rest at night. That means as soon as you notice you are experiencing trouble sleeping, it is time to talk to your doctor or a sleep professional.

Your doctor can help uncover the potential causes of your sleep disturbances and identify whether an undiagnosed sleep disorder is causing your issues. Some of the most common disorders that may be preventing you from receiving a good night’s rest can include:

• Sleep apnea
• Insomnia
• Restless legs syndrome
• Narcolepsy
• Rapid eye movement behavior disorder
• Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders
• Bruxism

Only a medical professional can diagnose a sleep disorder and help get you on the path back to a better night’s sleep. The time to talk to your doctor is now.

Signs of Potential Sleep Disturbances

Besides a general annoyance at waking up in the morning, how can you tell if you suffer from a sleep disorder? If you are experiencing regular sleep disturbances or consistently have issues falling or staying asleep, it’s time to talk to your doctor. Other signs you may be experiencing trouble sleeping or have an undiagnosed sleep disorder like sleep apnea can include:

• Snoring
• Fatigue
• Feeling tired the next day
• Headaches
• Confusion
• Trouble concentrating
• Taking more than 30 minutes to fall asleep
• Behavioral or mood changes
• Gasping for breath at night

If a lack of sleep interferes with your daily life, don’t wait. Talk to a medical professional who can evaluate your symptoms.

Are You Ready for Better Sleep? Silent Night Therapy Can Help

Are you concerned about the quality of your sleep? Let the sleep professionals at Silent Night Therapy help you get to the bottom of your sleep issues. Take the first step toward waking up more refreshed and contact our office at 631-983-2463 for a complimentary sleep consultation today.