Sleep disorders

Sleep disorder is a common health condition affecting a person’s quality of life and health. Manage sleep disorders effectively with our Australian-registered online doctors, available 24/7.

When to consult a doctor for sleep disorders?

If sleep problems are persistent or frequent

Consult with a doctor if you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early at least three nights a week for several weeks, as ongoing sleep issues may indicate an underlying sleep disorder.

If sleep disorders affect daytime functioning or safety

Seek medical advice if you feel excessively drowsy during the day, have difficulty concentrating, or if poor sleep affects work, school, driving, or daily activities.

If you experience abnormal behaviors or breathing during sleep

See a doctor if you snore loudly, gasp for air, stop breathing briefly during sleep, have frequent nightmares or night terrors, sleepwalk, act out dreams, or if sleep problems are impacting your mood, memory, or mental health.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Types

Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt the normal sleep pattern in terms of quality, duration, and more. There could be various types of sleep disorders which affect the daily life of the person suffering from it, such as:

Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep

Snoring: Noisy breathing during sleep

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: Repeated breathing interruptions during sleep due to blocked airways.

Sleep hypoventilation: Shallow breathing during sleep, resulting in low oxygen levels.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Unpleasant leg sensations with a strong urge to move them, disrupting sleep.

Bruxism: Grinding or clenching teeth during sleep, which can lead to dental damage.

Narcolepsy: Sudden, uncontrollable sleep attacks during the day

Sleep talking and sleepwalking: Unconscious speech or movement during sleep

Nightmares and night terrors: Disturbing dreams or intense episodes of fear with screaming

Causes

There are many causes that disrupt your sleep. Each sleep disorder has its unique causes and symptoms. Some of the common causes of sleep disorders include:

Mental health concerns like stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse and others

Nasal issues like blockages in airways, enlarged tonsils, and chronic lung diseases

Lifestyle issues like obesity, irregular sleep cycle and excessive caffeine intake

Other health conditions like pregnancy, chronic conditions, etc.

Symptoms

Some of the common symptoms of sleep disorders include:

Difficulty falling asleep

Loud snoring

Difficulty breathing during sleep

Headaches

Day time sleepiness

Fatigue

Hallucinations

How to fall asleep when stressed?

Stress increases cortisol, making it harder to fall and stay asleep. And poor sleep can worsen stress, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing. Here are a few tips to fall asleep when stressed –

Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation)

Avoid screens before bedtime

Follow a calm and consistent bedtime routine

Effects of sleep disorders on your body

Strain on the cardiovascular system: Conditions like sleep apnoea cause repeated pauses in breathing, leading to fluctuating oxygen levels and increased stress on the heart.

High blood pressure risk: Ongoing oxygen disruption can contribute to persistent high blood pressure over time.

Increased risk of heart disease and stroke: Long-term sleep disorders are linked to a higher likelihood of serious cardiovascular events.

Impaired brain function: Poor sleep disrupts natural sleep cycles, affecting concentration, memory, and decision-making.

Mood changes: Sleep disorders can worsen mood regulation, increasing irritability, anxiety, and risk of depression.

Weakened immune system: Lack of quality sleep reduces the body’s ability to fight infections and illnesses.

Weight gain and metabolic issues: Hormonal imbalances caused by poor sleep can increase appetite and slow metabolism, contributing to weight gain.

It is important to speak to a GP first to understand and manage your symptoms.

Hola Health provides a convenient way for you to consult a doctor online, 24/7 across Australia. Our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care.

Start your GP consult now

Clinical note: An online GP consult provides medical advice and clinical assessment of sleep concerns. Telehealth is a complementary service; an in-person physical examination may be needed to rule out anatomical obstructions or underlying physical conditions. Diagnosis and prescribing via telehealth rely on a real-time video or phone consultation. In case of sudden uncontrollable sleep attacks while driving, severe respiratory distress, or intense chest pain during the night, call 000 or visit an Emergency Department immediately. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.