North Valley Neurology & Sleep © All Rights Reserved.  

3815 E. Bell Rd. #2400
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone: (602) 482-2116

FAX: (602) 482-9563

Patients with sleep disorders tend to fall into one of four groups.

1) Disorders of Initiating and Maintaining Sleep (Insomnias)

2) Disorders of Excessive Sleepiness (e.g., sleep apnea, narcolepsy)

3) Sleep related behaviors (e.g., sleepwalking, night terrors)

4) Circadian rhythm disorders (e.g., shift work)

Here are some examples of commonly occurring sleep disorders.

Sleep Apnea is one of the most common disorders seen by physicians. It is a disorder of breathing that occurs during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is typically characterized by snoring, and a complaint of fatigue or excessive daytime sleepiness. A bed partner may report repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, and patients may complain of gasping or choking episodes during sleep. It is more common in overweight men, but can be seen in thin individuals too. It is diagnosed by a sleep test called a Polysomnogram where a patient has small wires attached to their body while they sleep to determine if they have this disorder. If present, treatment options include the use of nasal CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), upper airway surgery, dental devices, weight loss, or positional treatments.

Narcolepsy is a genetically inherited illness characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness. It may be accompanied by complaints of sudden episodes of weakness, often triggered by emotion (laughter, anger, etc.) called Cataplexy. It can also be accompanied by waking up paralyzed for seconds (sleep paralysis), and vivid dream like hallucinations upon falling asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations). It is diagnosed by overnight sleep testing (Polysomnogram), followed by a daytime test called a Multiple Sleep Latency Test which is a series of daytime naps occurring every two hours to measure how quickly one falls asleep during the day. It is a treatable condition, which may include medication, and adjustments to sleep behavior.
 

Restless Leg Syndrome is characterized by:

a. An uncomfortable sensation in the limbs (legs, and occasionally arms) associated with an irresistible urge to move the limbs;

b. Typically occurs in the evening or night time;

c. Occurs during periods of rest or inactivity;

d. Is partially or totally relieved temporarily by moving or stretching the affected limb(s).

Restless leg syndrome may be inherited in some individuals. It may occur during pregnancy or, in patients with anemia or iron deficiency. It may be due to side effects of certain medications, or occur with certain Neurologic disorders as well. It is often aggravated by the effects of caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol. It is treated with medication in many patients.
 

Insomnia should be viewed as a symptom generally, rather than a disease. Evaluation of insomnia requires a careful sleep history and physical examination. Insomnia can occur as a result of anxiety, depression, painful medical conditions, shift changes, medication, restless leg syndrome, etc. Treatment of insomnia may require changes in sleep behavior, medication, treatment of underlying medical conditions, and at times, medication. Sleep testing (Polysomnography) is only occasionally required to diagnose the cause of insomnia.

Our doctors have more than 25 years of experience in the evaluation and treatment of Sleep Disorders. We participate in clinical drug trials testing new products for the treatment of sleep related illnesses. If you need more information regarding the evaluation and treatment of a sleep disorder, please contact us.