Circadian rhythm refers to activity within the 24-hour day. Sleep and wake is but one set of activities. Most of our bodily functions are modulated by changes across 24 hours. One example of a circadian disturbance is jet lag.

Hypersomnia is characterized by excessive sleepiness during the day, whereas insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently during the night, waking too early in the morning and not being able to get back to sleep. Insomnia can last for several days, (transient), stop and start (intermittent), or last for more than one month (chronic).

Narcolepsy is usually described as excessive daytime sleepiness. It can begin at any age and continues through life. It is believed that there is a hereditary predisposition. The main symptoms are “sleep attacks” that can occur without warning, and cataplexy, which is the sudden loss of voluntary muscle control.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is the most common sleep disorder, affecting more than 20 million Americans. It is caused by a functional obstruction of the upper airway which results in breathing pauses (apneas) and disruption of sleep (arousals). These pauses can occur hundreds of times throughout the night. Symptoms associated with sleep apnea include: High blood pressure Obesity Large neck size (greater than 17 inches) Snoring, snorts, gasps, choking Daytime sleepiness Restless sleep Breathing pauses Frequent urination Untreated sleep apnea can cause excessive daytime sleepiness, weight gain, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, memory problems and headaches. Sleep apnea is also linked to poor work quality, decreased libido, automobile accidents, depression, and ADHD in children. The diagnosis of OSAS requires a complete history, physical examination, and a overnight sleep study (polysomnogram). Treatment options include weight loss, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), the use of an oral appliance, and surgical remedies. Patients should discuss a sleep evaluation with their doctor if they have any of the following problems: Loud excessive snoring Snoring that wakes the patient at night Gasping and choking during sleep Dry mouth, sore throat, or headache in the morning Daytime sleepiness and fatigue High blood pressure

Certain substances and conditions, such as dust, pollen, animal dander, cold or humid air, upper respiratory infections, or stress may trigger an asthmatic attack. When the airways react the muscles around them tighten. This causes the airways to narrow and less air flows to the lungs.

Asthma frequently develops in childhood and is the most common cause of chronic illness in children. In the United States more than 22 million people are known to have asthma with 6 million being children.

Effective medications are available to help control and treat asthma. Patients who work closely with their physicians are able to manage the disease effectively and live relatively healthy and active lives.

Notably, we are the only local practice offering pediatric sleep disorders treatment, consisting of sleep evaluations and continued management. We’re experienced at treating patients aged 13 and older.