Sleep apnea is the periodic cessation of breathing during sleep. This potentially life-threatening condition causes a decreased oxygen supply to body organs. The problem is usually recognized by loud, chronic snoring. The cessation of breathing may be sudden and prolonged, and sufferers may have from a few to several hundred apneic episodes in one night. Syptoms may include morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, disorientation, poor memory, and declining social performance.
Insomnia is the inability to sleep.
Sufferers may not be able to get to sleep, or may wake up often during the night. Insomnia may have several causes including abnormal leg or body movement, pain, breathing difficulties, and emotional problems. Narcolepsy is believed to be caused by a defect in the central nervous system. The condition causes individuals to have abrupt sleep attacks or temporary muscle weakness. Sufferers can fall asleep during meals or even while driving a car.