Sleep disorders are common. However, the symptoms of sleep disorders often are ignored by those who have them. One study of people with insomnia revealed that only 5% of those with insomnia visit their doctors specifically to discuss their sleep problems. Approximately 26% of those with insomnia have raised the problem while visiting their doctors for other medical problems, such as sleep apnea. More than two-thirds of those with insomnia NEVER discuss the problem with their doctors.

Even the most debilitating sleep disorders can be denied by sufferers. Several years ago, a limousine driver visited the Sleep Disorders Institute in Manhattan. He was accompanied by his wife, who participated in the consultation. When asked about daytime sleepiness, the patient reported “no problem.” His wife rolled her eyes and got up from her chair to say, “…What do you mean? You fall asleep watching television. You fall asleep at the dinner table. You’ve even fallen asleep while we’re visiting with friends!” Upon further questioning, the patient reluctantly admitted that he suffered from sleepiness, and he even added that he spent most of his time on the job sleeping while he waited to pick-up customers. Sure enough, the diagnosis of sleep apnea was positive.

The Top Ten Telltale Signs
There are some signs that can help determine if you or a loved one suffer from a sleep disorder. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, you may need to speak with your doctor:

	Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
	Fitful or disturbed sleep
	Sleep that is not restful or refreshing, or generally poor quality sleep
	Loud snoring (especially if overweight)
	Difficulty breathing during sleep, or snorting, gasping, or choking during sleep
	Daytime fatigue or sleepiness, or frequent daytime napping
	Impaired daytime functioning, such as impairments in attention, concentration, memory, or the ability to stay focused on a task
	Moodiness or irritability
	Dry mouth, sore throat, mental fogginess, or headaches upon awakening
	Unusual movements during sleep

Learning More
If you think that you or a loved one has a sleep disorder, read the descriptions of the most common sleep disorders by visiting About Sleep Disorders. You may also take our One-Minute Sleep Quiz or complete our Sleep Inventory to take to your next doctor’s visit.