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Some 50 million Americans suffer from a sleep disorder of one kind or another; it's a major health problem that is frequently associated with other, more serious illnesses, ranging from depression to obesity to a variety of physical disorders. The following are some of most common sleep disorders.

Initial insomnia, or simply an inability or difficulty in falling asleep. This is commonly connected to anxiety disorders (keeping yourself awake with worry) or depression.

Middle insomnia, or awakening in the middle of the night and then being unable to fall back asleep. This frequently occurs from physical cause, which can be a pain-related disorder such as arthritis, or an organic disorder such as gastrointestinal disease (a bowel syndrome or stomach ailment), or a neurological illness ranging from common migraines to any of the more serious neurological diseases.
End-stage insomnia, or awakening before one's natural sleep cycle (generally six to eight hours) is complete, and being unable to return to sleep.
Hypersomnia is simply sleeping too much typically, 10 hours or more at a stretch, or sleeping repeatedly during the day. Hypersomnia can be a sign of a more serious ailment ranging from a blood disorder to depression to heart disease.
Sleep apnea is a syndrome in which a blockage of the airway or breathing organs causes the sufferer to awaken. It can be associated with high blood pressure or diabetes, and thus is often a sign of a problem requiring serious medical examination.

Treatments for sleep disorders range from the various over-the-counter remedies known to most of us (Sominex, Nytol, Nyquil) to prescription sleep aids for insomnia. Alternative remedies such as Valerian root, Melatonin, and St. John's wort are now commonly available; and a variety of psychological therapies such as hypnosis, relaxation tapes, music, and even aromatherapies are also in general use. For hypersomnia, stimulants are also available both in OTC and prescription varieties; and sufferers of sleep apnea (typically appearing as loud or disruptive snoring) can turn to nose-clips and similar physical aids to help keep the airway clear and open during sleep.

Under any circumstances, a persistent sleep disorder of any kind requires medical examination from a qualified professional. If you are having regular difficulty with falling or staying asleep; with sleeping way too much too often; or with loud snoring that frequently breaks up your sleep; or if your sleep is simply not refreshing or restorative; it is time to see your doctor. And if your sleeping problem is connected with feelings of depression, hopelessness, helplessness, or intense worry or anxiety, a visit to a mental health professional may be necessary. In any event, the presence of a sleep disorder is never a "sleeping dog best left to lie." You spend a third of your day sleeping: it is as important to your health as anything you do while awake. So if there's a problem with your sleep, get help.

Learn more about this author, Brian Donohue.
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