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What are the common signs and symptoms of a sleep disorder?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may benefit from meeting with an expert sleep specialist.

  • Loud and disturbing snoring
  • Trouble falling asleep several times per week
  • Difficulty staying asleep all night
  • Excessive drowsiness or tiredness throughout the day
  • Frequent headaches or dry/sore throat
  • Difficulty staying awake during the day, even when driving or working
  • Itchy, uncomfortable feeling in your legs
  • Unusual behaviors during the night

Read about the sleep disorders that Weill Cornell Medicine treats at the Center for Sleep Medicine.

What are the risk factors for sleep disorders?

Some factors increase the likelihood of developing a sleep disorder:

  • Age: Disorders are more common in adults over 40.
  • Gender: Women are more likely to suffer from insomnia. Men are more likely to have sleep apnea.
  • Weight: Being overweight or obese significantly increases the likelihood of a sleep disorder.
  • Other medical problems: Those who suffer from high blood pressure, anxiety, or depression have a higher risk.

What can I do to help myself sleep better?

There are many ways to improve your “sleep hygiene” and help yourself get a better night’s sleep:

  • Establish a routine for going to bed, and stick with it
  • Exercise regularly, ideally every day
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco for several hours before bedtime
  • Take time to unwind before you begin your nightly routine; learn relaxation techniques
  • Always sleep in a bed in a dark, quiet room

I’d like to learn more about sleep disorders. What are some recommended resources for information?