Sleep Disorders Specialist

What’s a sleep disorder?

A sleep disorder is a condition that impacts a patient’s sleeping patterns, causing them to get less-than-adequate sleep. This causes the patient to wake up feeling exhausted or to feel sleepy during the day. Frequent sleep disorders can be a frustrating and debilitating experience that takes a serious toll on a patient’s mood, energy, and ability to cope with stress. Ignoring sleep issues and disorders can damage physical health and lead to weight gain, accidents, impaired job performance, memory problems, and strain on relationships. As a sleep specialist, Dr. Norman helps patients identify the underlying causes of their sleeping disorder, find ways to improve their sleep, and improve quality of life.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Everyone can experience sleeping problems on occasion. Determining whether it’s a disorder can come from a deeper look at the symptoms. Do you:

• Feel irritable or sleepy during the day?
• Have difficulty staying awake when sitting still, watching television, or reading?
• Fall asleep or feel very tired while driving?
• Have difficulty concentrating?
• Often get told by others that you look tired?
• React slowly?
• Have trouble controlling your emotions?
• Feel like you have to take a nap almost every day?
• Require caffeinated beverages to keep yourself going?

If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, you may have a sleeping disorder. Visit Dr. Norman to see if you actually have a sleep disorder.

What are some common sleep disorders?

The most common types of sleep disorders include:

• Insomnia
• Sleep apnea
• Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
• Narcolepsy
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders
• Delayed sleep phase disorder
• Night terrors, sleep terrors, sleep walking, or other parasomnias

Dr. Norman of Santa Monica Sleep Disorders Center helps with treatment for these sleep disorders and others. Call or stop by the office today to set up an appointment and discuss your needs. You can also schedule an appointment with Dr. Norman online. The practice is currently welcoming new patients and accepts most major forms of insurance.