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Sleep Disorders Health Center

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Sleep Disorders Overview

Need to learn more about sleep disorders? Sleep problems, including snoring, sleep apnea, insomnia, sleep deprivation, and restless legs syndrome, are common among millions of Americans. It’s important to understand why sleep is necessary for optimal health, how the natural hormone melatonin affects sleep and wakefulness, and how the different states and stages of sleep impact sleep quality, quantity, and sleep dreams.

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Sleep Habits Vary by Ethnicity

Sleep problems and sleep habits vary among different ethnic groups, according to a new national survey. But among all ethnicities, there remains a common denominator: Many of us simply don't get enough sleep.

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Understanding Sleep Problems - Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Disorders?

Insomnia

Insomnia is itself often a symptom of other problems. Typical patterns of insomnia include the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep at night, waking up earlier than usual, and daytime fatigue. Most people with insomnia don't fall asleep in inappropriate situations, like driving. If this does occur, it may signal that a medical disorder (such as sleep apnea) is the cause of insomnia.

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Show or hide information about video: Melatonin: How It Affects Sleep   Melatonin: How It Affects Sleep

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Learn how the natural hormone melatonin affects sleep.

Watch Video: Melatonin: How It Affects Sleep (opens in a new window)

Show or hide information about video: How Sleep Affects My Memory   How Sleep Affects My Memory

Show or hide information about video: Sleeping Pills: When to Take Them   Sleeping Pills: When to Take Them

Show or hide information about video: Child Sleep Disorders   Child Sleep Disorders

Show or hide information about video: How to Improve Your Quality of Sleep   How to Improve Your Quality of Sleep