Look over this list of common signs of a sleep disorders, and talk to your doctor if you have any of them:
Also keep in mind that, although children can show some of these same signs of a sleep disorder, they often do not show signs of excessive daytime sleepiness. Instead, they may seem overactive and have difficulty focusing and concentrating. They also may not do their best in school.
At various points in our lives, all of us suffer from a lack of sleep that can be remedied by making sure we have the opportunity to get enough sleep. But, if you are spending enough time in bed and still wake up tired or feel very sleepy during the day, you may have a sleep disorder.
One of the best ways you can tell if you are getting enough good quality sleep, and whether you have signs of a sleep disorder, is by keeping a sleep diary: a record of the quality and quantity of your sleep; your use of medications, alcohol and caffeinated beverages; your exercise patterns; and how sleepy you feel during the day. After a week or so, look over this information to see how many hours of sleep or nighttime awakenings the night before are linked to your being tired the next day. This information will give you a sense of how much uninterrupted sleep you need to avoid daytime sleepiness. You can also use the diary to see some of the patterns or practices that may keep you from getting a good night's sleep.
You may have a sleep disorder and should see your doctor if your sleep diary reveals any of the following:
If your doctor refers you to a sleep center or sleep specialist, make sure that center or specialist is qualified to diagnose and treat your sleep problem. To find sleep centers accredited by the American Academy of Sleep medicine, go to www.aasmnet.org… and click on “Find a Sleep Center,” or call 708–492–0930. To find sleep specialists certified by the American Board of Sleep Medicine, go to www.absm.org… and click on “Diplomates of the ABSM.”