If you have been having trouble getting enough or quality sleep, know that you are not alone. While there might be some simple changes you can make in order to see a vast improvement in your sleep cycle, there might be bigger issues at play. To help you determine whether you need to get in touch with your doctor for a referral to a sleep clinic, you will want to review the following.
You Wake Up Gasping For Air
Have you ever found yourself suddenly waking up in a panic, gasping for air? It might feel as though all of the wind got knocked out of you and you are struggling to take in any oxygen. That may last for a few seconds as you awaken and then you are able to breathe again just fine. This is not something that you want to ignore. It could be a sign that you have a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea, which is a very dangerous disorder to have. With proper treatment, you will be able to get enough oxygen while you sleep.
You Are Always Exhausted No Matter How Long You Sleep
Generally, it is not about the number of hours that you sleep, but the quality of the sleep that you are getting. A good five hours of sleep is much better than ten hours of restless sleep. If you are not experiencing proper sleep cycling throughout the night, you are going to wake up still feeling tired. Therefore, if you have found that no matter what you do or how long you sleep that you are always ready for a nap, it is time to consult a sleep medicine doctor.
You Are Unable To Stay Asleep
When it comes to trouble with sleeping, being unable to fall asleep or remain asleep throughout the night is another concern. If you are waking up at all hours of the night and there is not an explanation for it, such as bladder problems, then you will want to consult with a sleep medicine doctor. Your sleep doctor will put you through some tests and monitoring to determine what the cause of the problem is.
The sooner you are able to get an appointment at a sleep clinic, the sooner you will be able to get a good night of sleep. This should surely make you more alert during the day and you will have more energy as well.
For more information, contact a sleep clinic near you.