How Common Are Sleep Disorders?

Sleep disorders are widespread, with more than 50 million Americans experiencing some form of sleep disorder. These conditions affect people of all ages and can lead to serious health problems if not addressed.

Older adults are particularly susceptible due to changes in circadian rhythms and other health conditions that affect sleep quality.

1. Insomnia

Description and Symptoms

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. Symptoms include daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Chronic insomnia can lead to significant sleep deprivation and health problems.

Common Causes

• Stress and anxiety.

• Poor sleep hygiene.

• Medical conditions such as chronic pain or hormonal changes.

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Description and Symptoms

OSA is a serious condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. Symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Central sleep apnea, a less common form, involves irregular breathing patterns due to brain signal issues.

Common Causes

• Obesity.

• Anatomical factors such as a large neck or narrow airway.

• Family history of sleep apnea.

3. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Description and Symptoms

RLS causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Symptoms typically worsen in the evening or at night, leading to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Periodic limb movement disorder, often associated with RLS, causes repetitive leg movements during sleep​.

Common Causes

• Iron deficiency.

• Kidney failure.

• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease​.

4. Narcolepsy

Description and Symptoms

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the brain's ability to control sleep-wake cycles. Symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep attacks, and sudden loss of muscle control (cataplexy). It can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.

Common Causes

• Genetic factors.

• Autoimmune disorders.

• Brain injuries​.

5. Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders

Description and Symptoms

These disorders occur when there is a misalignment between the internal body clock and the external environment. Types include delayed sleep phase syndrome, advanced sleep phase syndrome, and shift work disorder. These conditions often result in sleep disturbances and inadequate restful sleep.

Common Causes

• Irregular sleep schedules.

• Shift work.

• Jet lag