Sleep disorders can have various causes, both physical and psychological. They can be caused by diseases that cause pain, inflammation, hormonal or metabolic disorders (fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, etc.), respiratory problems that hinder oxygenation during sleep (obstructive sleep apnoea, asthma, allergies, etc.), neurological disorders that affect the circadian rhythm or sleep regulation (narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, sleepwalking, etc.), or psychological factors that cause stress, anxiety, depression, or insomnia. Medications that alter the sleep-wake cycle (beta blockers, corticosteroids, antidepressants, etc.) and unhealthy lifestyle habits that interfere with sleep (alcohol, caffeine or nicotine consumption, overwork or excessive use of electronic devices, noise or ambient light, etc.) can also have an impact on sleep.

There are over 100 different types of sleep disorders, which can be grouped into four broad categories. Firstly, there are problems falling asleep and staying asleep, such as insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or waking up too early and being unable to go back to sleep). Next come problems with staying awake, such as obstructive sleep apnoea (partial or total obstruction of the airways during sleep). Then there are problems with maintaining a regular sleep schedule, such as delayed sleep phase syndrome (when the biological clock is out of sync with the natural cycle of light and darkness). Finally, there are unusual behaviours during sleep known as parasomnias (sleepwalking, night terrors, nightmares, restless legs syndrome).

To find out if you have a sleep disorder, the first thing you should do is consult your doctor, who will be able to assess your case and carry out the necessary tests to reach an accurate diagnosis and provide personalised treatment if necessary. You can easily request an appointment with the Sleep Unit at Centro Médico Teknon by filling out the form through our appointment request system or by calling us 932906405.

The duration of a sleep disorder depends on its type, cause, and treatment. Some sleep disorders can vary in severity. They may be temporary or episodic, while others may be chronic or permanent and may require treatment throughout the patient's life.

Sleep disorders can have different causes and treatments depending on the type and severity of each case. Some possible ways to treat sleep problems are to develop good sleeping habits by establishing a regular bedtime and wake-up routine and creating a comfortable and peaceful environment for sleep. Changing your lifestyle by avoiding certain substances (caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, etc.) and doing moderate physical exercise during the day, accompanied by a balanced diet, can help you sleep better. Treatment options include cognitive behavioural therapy, which serves to help identify and adjust thought patterns and habits that interfere with sleep. In some cases, drugs may be prescribed to facilitate sleep or treat the underlying cause of the problem. Medicines should be used with caution and under medical supervision, as they may have side effects or cause dependence. With this in mind, each patient receives an accurate diagnosis together with individualised advice and treatment, provided by our professional team skilled in managing sleep disorders.