Sleep disorders and how to treat them
- Insomnia: Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Treatment of Insomnia includes lifestyle changes such as avoiding caffeine, alcohol and nicotine before bed, exercising during the day, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Other treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and medications.
- Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. Treatment for sleep apnea includes lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and smoking, weight loss, and using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Surgery may also be an option for some people with sleep apnea.
- Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness. Treatment for narcolepsy includes medications to improve alertness and reduce sleepiness, lifestyle changes, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): RLS is a sleep disorder characterized by an uncomfortable sensation in the legs and an urge to move them. Treatment for RLS includes lifestyle modifications such as avoiding caffeine, exercising regularly, and avoiding activities that make symptoms worse. Medications and physical therapy may also help to reduce symptoms.
Sleep disorders resources
- Sleep Health Foundation: The Sleep Health Foundation is an independent not-for-profit organisation that seeks to improve the health and wellbeing of Australians through better sleep. It provides information, resources, and support for people with sleep-related problems and works to raise awareness of the importance of sleep.
- Sleep Health Network: The Sleep Health Network is a national network of sleep professionals dedicated to improving the quality of sleep for Australians. It provides a range of resources and information on sleep disorders, treatments, and sleep health.
- Sleep Disorders Australia: Sleep Disorders Australia is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that provides information and support for people with sleep disorders. It also runs a range of community education programs and works to raise awareness of the importance of sleep health.
- Sleep Research Australia: Sleep Research Australia is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to researching and understanding the science of sleep. It provides a range of information and resources on sleep disorders and treatments, as well as conducting research into the causes and treatments of sleep disorders.