Sleep Disorders

Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine

Last synced 8/6/2026Status: primary verified

What is sleep? While you are sleeping your brain and body functions are still active. Sleep is a natural process that helps your body restore energy, supports learning and memory, and keeps you healthy. It's not just the number of hours of sleep you get that matters. The quality of your sleep is also important. During the night, your brain cycles through different stages of non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. If your sleep is often interrupted, you may not get enough time in certain stages of sleep. Poor-quality sleep does more than make you feel tired. It can affect your physical and mental health, thinking, and daily functioning. What are sleep disorders? Sleep disorders are conditions that disturb your normal sleep patterns. There are many types of sleep disorders. Some general types include: Insomnia , which is trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Sleep-related breathing disorders such as sleep apnea , a condition in which you stop breathing for 10 seconds or more during sleep. Sleep-related movement disorders such as restless leg syndrome (RLS), which involves tingling or prickling sensations in your legs, and a strong urge to move them. Hypersomnia, which is extreme daytime sleepiness. This includes narcolepsy. Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders , which are problems falling asleep or waking up at the right times. This may be due to shift work or jet lag. Parasomnia , which is unusual behaviors during sleep or while falling asleep or waking up. This may include sleepwalking, talking, or eating during sleep. Some people who feel tired during the day have a true sleep disorder, while others simply don't get enough sleep. The amount of sleep you need depends on your age, lifestyle, health, and sleep patterns. Most adults need about 7-9 hours each night. What causes sleep disorders? There are different causes for different sleep disorders. They may include: Other health conditions, such as heart disease , lung disease

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This information is for general education and is not medical advice. Always talk to a licensed U.S. clinician about your situation, medications, or treatment decisions.