Sleep Disorders

These brief descriptions introduce most of the sleep disorders that we treat at the Redwood Sleep Center.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common disorder, affecting up to 20% of men and 9% of women. Typically occurring in people who snore, sleep apnea results from obstruction of the upper airway, most often at the base of the tongue. Sleep apnea can prevent a person from reaching deep, restorative sleep. The apneas can cause numerous arousals from sleep during the night, resulting in excessive fatigue or sleepiness during the day. Sleep apnea is associated with other health effects, such as high blood pressure and heart disease.

Insomnia

Insomnia is defined as an inability to fall asleep or an inability to stay asleep. It affects one third of the population at some point in their lives, with roughly one third of these people experiencing chronic insomnia. A variety of psychological and physiological factors can cause insomnia. The disorder may be worsened by consuming alcohol, stimulants such as caffeine or amphetamines, or by certain drugs or medications.

Movement Disorders

Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) and restless legs syndrome (RLS) are two common movement disorders. Movement disorders often either prevent or disrupt sleep. PLMD only affects people during sleep. RLS affects people while they are awake and is characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs while awake.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is characterized by excessive sleepiness during the day and interrupted sleep at night. It affects roughly one in 2000 individuals. While very debilitating, narcolepsy is highly treatable.

Other Sleep Disorders

We also diagnose and treat night terrors, sleepwalking, REM behavior disorders and other sleep-related disorders.