Expert Insights on Sleeping Disorders with Dr. Alex Shum, ENT Specialist from Every Day Health

“`html

health.Learn about the latest trends and potential solutions.">

Rising Concerns Over Increasing Sleep Disorders

december 2, 2025, 10:55 AM

A significant increase in reported sleeping disorders is raising alarms among medical professionals. The trend, observed throughout the last year, suggests a growing public health challenge with far-reaching consequences. Experts are noting a rise in cases ranging from insomnia to more complex conditions like sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome.

The Scope of the Problem

The prevalence of sleep disturbances is no longer confined to specific demographics. While historically more common in older adults, a substantial number of younger individuals and working professionals are now seeking treatment for sleep-related issues. This shift is attributed to a combination of factors, including increased stress levels, prolonged screen time, and irregular work schedules.

Recent data from the National Sleep Foundation indicates that over 35% of adults report experiencing insufficient sleep on a regular basis. This figure represents a notable increase compared to previous years,highlighting the urgency of addressing this growing concern. The economic impact of sleep disorders is also substantial, with lost productivity and increased healthcare costs adding to the burden.

Understanding Common Sleep Disorders

Several types of sleep disorders are contributing to the overall increase in cases. Insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep, remains one of the most prevalent.Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, is also on the rise, frequently enough linked to obesity and cardiovascular health. Restless legs syndrome,causing an irresistible urge to move the legs,further complicates the landscape.

disorder	Key Symptoms	potential Causes
Insomnia	Difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings	Stress, anxiety, poor sleep hygiene
Sleep Apnea	Loud snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep	Obesity, anatomical factors, cardiovascular issues
Restless Legs Syndrome	Uncomfortable sensations in legs, urge to move	Iron deficiency, genetics, neurological conditions

Did You Know? Chronic sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.

Medical professionals emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. Untreated sleep disorders can lead to a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders.Seeking professional help is crucial for identifying the underlying cause and developing an effective treatment plan.

Pro Tip: Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimizing your sleep habitat can significantly improve sleep quality.

The Role

What are the key lifestyle adjustments someone with mild sleep apnea could try before considering medical interventions?

Understanding the Spectrum of Sleep Disorders

Sleep is fundamental to our health, yet millions struggle with various sleep disorders. Dr. Alex Shum, a leading ENT specialist at Every Day Health, sheds light on the common types and their impact. These aren’t simply about feeling tired; they can considerably affect daily life, impacting mood, concentration, and overall well-being. Common sleep problems include:

* Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. This is arguably the most prevalent sleep disturbance.

* sleep Apnea: Characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep,often leading to daytime fatigue. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form.

* Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): An irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.

* Narcolepsy: A neurological disorder causing excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep.

* Parasomnias: Abnormal behaviors during sleep, such as sleepwalking or night terrors.

The ENT Connection: How Ear, Nose, and Throat Health Impacts Sleep

Many people don’t realize the strong link between ENT health and quality sleep. Dr. Shum explains,”The airway plays a crucial role. Issues like nasal congestion, deviated septums, or enlarged tonsils can obstruct airflow, leading to snoring and, in severe cases, sleep apnea.”

HereS a breakdown of specific ENT conditions that can disrupt sleep:

* Nasal Congestion: Allergies, colds, or sinus infections can block nasal passages, forcing mouth breathing and increasing the risk of snoring.

* Deviated Septum: A crooked nasal septum can restrict airflow, contributing to sleep-disordered breathing.

* Enlarged Tonsils & Adenoids: Common in children,these can obstruct the airway during sleep.

* Chronic Sinusitis: inflammation of the sinuses can lead to nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, impacting sleep.

Diagnosing Sleep Disorders: What to Expect

Accurate diagnosis is the first step towards effective treatment. Dr. Shum outlines the typical diagnostic process:

1. Medical History & Physical Exam: A thorough review of your symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination of your ears, nose, and throat.
2. Sleep Study (Polysomnography): This is the gold standard for diagnosing sleep apnea and other sleep disorders. It monitors brain waves,heart rate,breathing,and oxygen levels during sleep.Home sleep apnea tests (HSAT) are also available for certain cases.
3. Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, allergy testing can identify triggers contributing to nasal congestion.
4. Endoscopic Evaluation: Using a small camera, Dr. Shum can visualize the nasal passages and airway to identify structural abnormalities.

Treatment Options: From Lifestyle Changes to Surgical Interventions

Treatment for sleep disorders varies depending on the diagnosis. Dr.Shum emphasizes a personalized approach.

* Lifestyle Modifications: For mild insomnia,improving sleep hygiene is frequently enough the first line of defense. This includes:

* Maintaining a regular sleep schedule.

* Creating a relaxing bedtime routine.

* Avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed.

* ensuring a dark, quiet, and cool sleep surroundings.

* CPAP Therapy: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It delivers a constant stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep.

* Oral Appliances: These devices reposition the jaw and tongue to improve airflow.They are often used for mild to moderate sleep apnea.

* Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural abnormalities that contribute to sleep-disordered breathing. Options include:

* Septoplasty: To correct a deviated septum.

* Turbinate Reduction: To reduce the size of enlarged turbinates in the nose.

* Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy: Removal of tonsils and adenoids, particularly in children.

* Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): A surgical procedure to widen the airway.

* Medication: While not a long-term solution, medications can help manage symptoms of insomnia or RLS.

The Benefits of addressing Sleep Disorders

Treating sleep disorders offers a multitude of benefits:

* Improved Energy Levels: Restful sleep restores energy and reduces daytime fatigue.

* Enhanced Cognitive Function: Better sleep improves concentration, memory, and decision-making.

* Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious health problems.

*