I Can’t Stay Awake – What’s Wrong with Me?
Are you struggling to stay awake even when you’ve spent the whole night in bed and feel like you must have had a full night’s sleep? Do you fall asleep at your desk or become so tired that you can’t focus? Have you ever felt so sleepy while driving you worried it was unsafe to continue driving? If you are struggling to stay away during the day even when you’ve gone to bed early and tried to sleep for 6-8 hours, you may have a sleep disorder. At Sleep & Neuroscience Associates, we treat all kinds of sleep disorders.
How Do You Diagnose a Sleeping Disorder?
When you come in for your initial appointment, your physician will talk with you about the symptoms you are having and conduct a physical exam. Depending on your symptoms, he may order additional tests, including a sleep study or an EEG. Your physician will try to determine whether the sleep disorder is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication that needs to be resolved.
How Are Sleep Disorders Treated?
Regardless of the type of sleep disorder you are diagnosed with, the treatment will include lifestyle changes, medications, and medical treatments. Because sleep disorders can contribute to poor heath, increase the risk of accidents, and reduce your cognitive capabilities.
Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
While each type of sleep disorder has some unique symptoms, there are general ones as well. These include:
- Trouble falling asleep
- Waking up throughout the night (even if you’re not aware you are)
- Excessive daytime fatigue
- Urge to nap
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Impaired performance on the job or in school
- Difficulty concentrating
Don’t Ignore the Symptoms
Some sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, can contribute to high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and other serious medical complications. It’s important to obtain a diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as you notice symptoms. It’s important to get treated as quickly as possible.
If you believe you may be suffering from a sleep disorder, it is important to see a doctor who specializes in sleep medicine in order to properly diagnose and treat your condition. Call (203)-245-0412 today, or schedule an appointment using this form.
