Unihäiriö

Unihäiriö, often translated as sleep disorder, refers to any condition that affects a person's ability to sleep well on a regular basis. These disorders can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle and lead to a variety of physical and mental health problems. They can manifest in different ways, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing abnormal behaviors during sleep.

Common types of sleep disorders include insomnia, characterized by persistent problems falling or staying asleep; sleep apnea, where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep; restless legs syndrome, an irresistible urge to move the legs; and narcolepsy, a neurological disorder affecting the control of sleep and wakefulness. Sleep disorders can be caused by a range of factors, such as stress, anxiety, medical conditions, certain medications, poor sleep habits, and genetic predispositions.

The consequences of unihäiriö can be significant, impacting daily functioning. Symptoms often include excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and a weakened immune system. Chronic sleep deprivation associated with sleep disorders can also increase the risk of developing more serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Diagnosis typically involves a review of sleep history, physical examination, and sometimes a sleep study (polysomnography). Treatment approaches vary depending on the specific disorder and may include lifestyle changes, behavioral therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), or medication. Addressing sleep disorders is crucial for overall health and well-being.