The Most Common Sleep Disorders in San Antonio

Sleep is an essential part of our overall health, yet millions of people struggle with sleep disorders that affect their daily lives. In San Antonio, Texas, where a fast-paced lifestyle, work stress, and even environmental factors contribute to sleep disturbances, many residents are seeking solutions to improve their sleep quality. Understanding the most common sleep disorders and their treatments can help individuals regain restful, restorative sleep.
 

1. Insomnia: The Most Prevalent Sleep Disorder

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, affecting millions of people in San Antonio and beyond. This condition is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and being unable to return to sleep.
 

Causes of Insomnia

• Stress, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions

• Poor sleep hygiene

• Irregular work schedules

• Caffeine and alcohol consumption

• Underlying medical conditions
   

Treatment for Insomnia

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): The gold standard for treating insomnia, CBT-I helps individuals change negative sleep habits and thoughts that disrupt sleep.

• Improved Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, limiting screen time, and maintaining a comfortable sleep environment.

• Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation.
   

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a serious condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to airway obstruction.
 

Some of the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Loud snoring

• Waking up gasping for air

• Daytime fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• Falling asleep accidentally during the day 
   

*If you are concerned you may have sleep apnea, it is best to contact a local sleep clinic for further evaluation and a sleep study. Obstructive and Central Sleep Apnea can only be diagnosed with a sleep study called Polysomnography (PSG) or a Home Sleep Test (HST).    

 

3. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

RLS is a neurological disorder that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often disrupting sleep.
 

Symptoms of RLS

• Strong urge to shake or move your legs

• Uncomfortable sensations in the legs

• Worse symptoms in the evening or at rest

• Temporary relief with movement
   

*If you are concerned about RLS, please talk with your primary care physician (PCP) for an assessment and treatment if needed. 
 

4. Circadian Rhythm Disorders

These disorders occur when a person’s internal body clock is misaligned with their desired or required sleep schedule. This is common among shift workers and frequent travelers.
 

Types of Circadian Rhythm Disorders

• Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder

• Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder 

• Shift Work Disorder

• Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Rhythm Disorder 

• Irregular Sleep-Wake Rhythm 
   

Treatment for Circadian Rhythm Disorders

• Light Therapy: Exposure to bright light at strategic times to reset the body’s clock.

• Behavioral Adjustments: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding blue light exposure before bed.

• Melatonin Supplements: Can help regulate sleep cycles when taken correctly. Ask your PCP or psychiatrist for recommendations on doses before starting medication, even those over the counter. 
   

5. Nightmares and PTSD-Related Sleep Disorders

Frequent nightmares, especially those related to trauma, can lead to poor sleep and increased stress levels.
 

Treatment for Nightmares

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Nightmares (CBT-N): Helps reduce the severity and frequency of nightmares.

• Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT): Involves rewriting the narrative of recurring nightmares to lessen their emotional impact.

• Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing and mindfulness exercises to reduce nighttime anxiety.
   

Seeking Professional Help for Sleep Disorders in San Antonio

If you or a loved one are experiencing ongoing sleep problems, seeking professional help is essential. The Refreshing Sleep Center offers specialized treatments for insomnia, sleep apnea, and other sleep disorders through evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and Behavioral Therapy for CPAP Compliance. CBT-I can be modified to assist with circadian rhythm disorders as well. If Dr. Wilk is concerned you may have a sleep disorder that requires medical assessment or intervention, she will recommend you to see a local sleep clinic, psychiatrist, or your PCP. 
 

Why Choose Online Sleep Therapy?

• Convenient: Access professional sleep therapy from the comfort of your home in San Antonio or anywhere in Texas.

• Effective: Proven treatment methods, including CBT-I and CBT-N, to help improve sleep naturally.

• Personalized Care: Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific sleep concerns and lifestyle.
   

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep

If you're struggling with a sleep disorder, don’t wait to seek help. Schedule a consultation today to start your journey toward refreshing sleep.

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