Without proper diagnosis and treatment, the following sleep disorders may affect your quality of life:

Sleep Apnea
Snoring can be dangerous - not because of the disturbing noise, but because it may be linked to a serious condition. Loud, disruptive snoring that's coupled with extreme daytime sleepiness may be a sign of sleep apnea - when breathing becomes blocked during sleep. While this brief halt in breathing doesn't wake the snorer, it does result in poor night's sleep. Sleep apnea may also trigger high blood pressure, heart failure, heart attack and stroke.

Narcolepsy
We've all drifted off in a movie or while watching television from time to time. But people suffering from narcolepsy find it physically impossible to stay awake. They have a tendency to sleep at inappropriate times, such as while working, eating or talking with someone. There "sleep attacks" can last from a few seconds to 30 minutes, and can prove dangerous in some situations.

Periodic Leg Movements of Sleep (PLMS)
Unusual movements before and during sleep may indicate PLMS or "restless leg syndrome." Unbeknownst to the sleeper, repetitive leg muscle jerks or twitches can cause hundreds of awakenings each night. The result is daytime sleepiness and fatigue for many middle-aged and older people.

Insomnia
Insomniacs have difficulty falling asleep, awaken frequently during the night or wake up early and cannot get back to sleep. This commonly found sleep disorder is often a sign of other problems and can be triggered by stress, anxiety, depression, night-shift work or jet lag. Long-term insomnia can also be caused by chronic medical conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.

How to Get your ZZZZZs
You probably don't sleep like a baby or a log. In fact, you may not feel like you're sleeping at all. In your quest to get more sleep, we suggest trying these simple tips. If these tips don't provide adequate relief, contact your primary care physician or call Sleep Health at 269.324.0799.

For Difficulty Falling Asleep

• Relax for at least an hour before bedtime.
• Avoid daytime naps.
• Do not go to bed hungry, but avoid eating a large meal before bedtime.
• Don't watch the clock.
• If you can't fall asleep after a reasonable time, get up and do something relaxing, such as reading or watching television.
• Try progressive relaxation. Close your eyes and get comfortable. Slowly tense and then relax each muscle group, starting at your toes and working up your body.

Ideas to Sleep By

• Avoid caffeinated beverages six hours before bedtime - a cup of coffee in the late afternoon may keep you awake at night.
• Get regular exercise, but avoid heavy exercise within two hours of bedtime.
• Quit smoking, as nicotine is a stimulant. Nicotine withdrawal during the night can also disrupt your sleep.
• Review all medications with your doctor. Certain drugs can disturb sleep patterns.
• Avoid alcohol and other sedative medications.
• Consider sleeping pills as your last resort. Over-the-counter sleep aids typically contain antihistamines, which can cause drowsiness the following day.