Sweet Sleep Blog

Sleep Disorders affect over 70 Million Americans Sleep disorders are not rare.  They are actually common and many may actually suffer from a sleep disorder or other sleep issue and not even be aware of it.   Signs of a Sleep Disorder or Sleep Issue Taking longer than 30 minutes to fall asleep Feeling tired or irritable during the day even though you got seven to eight hours of sleep Waking up in the middle of the night and being unable to fall back asleep Needing long naps during the day Concentrating on your work or school is a struggle Falling asleep at inappropriate times Waking too early in the morning Very loud snoring that may even disturb your sleeping partner Feeling a tingly or crawling sensation in your legs while trying to sleep Needing coffee or other stimulants to keep you awake during the day

Excessive Sleepiness What is it?   Excessive sleepiness is feeling very tired or drowsy during the day. It is often confused with fatigue, but they are different struggles.  Excessive Sleepiness vs Fatigue  Fatigue is dealing with low energy. You can be physically, mentally, or emotionally fatigued.  This is usually a result of either a medical condition or overusing your body or mind.    Excessive Sleepiness makes you feel so tired that it ends up interfering with your daily life. Excessive sleepiness is often a sign you may have a sleep disorder that is keeping you from getting the sleep you need to function.  Treatment Since excessive sleepiness is not actually a condition, but a symptom, the best way to treat it is by determining the cause.  If being excessively sleepy is keeping you from daily tasks and affecting your work, relationship, or what you need to get done, call to schedule your visit with Dr. Bhat  (...

Stretches for Better Sleep Spinal Twist  Knee to Chest Back Stretch Reclining Hamstring Stretch Lying Side Quad Stretch Half Happy Baby Happy Baby Cobra Fish Butterfly

What is Narcolepsy? Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder, stemming  from the brain’s inability to regulate periods of sleep and wakefulness ( Michael Breus, Ph.D., ABSM).  Most of the time those who suffer from Narcolepsy will feel that they are rested and ready for the day but then will become extremely tired throughout the day and may fall asleep involuntarily.  Symptoms of Narcolepsy Excessive Daytime Sleepiness is exactly what it sounds like, being excessively tired regardless of how much sleep you've gotten.   Cataplexy is sudden muscle weakness and loss of voluntary muscle control. This can often times be brought on by strong emotions making it a difficult to deal with. Sleep paralysis, hallucinations, fragmented sleep, insomnia, and automatic behaviors are also signs of narcolepsy.  Causes When cataplexy is present it is almost always connected to extremely low levels of hypocretin.  Hypocretin is a chemical that natura...

What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body.  This is most often done by inserting thin needles.   Are there risks? The main risk from acupuncture is non-sterile needles and incorrect delivery.  Make sure that when you are scheduling your acupuncture you go with a professional with a sound reputation and a very clean office.   Most states require a diploma from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine for licensing to practice acupuncture. Benefits Acupuncture is used by many to treat pain, stress, headaches, and more.  Relieving your body of stress and pain can lead to being able to fall asleep faster and sleep better.  Those who suffer from insomnia can also find relief after acupuncture.  Beijing University of Chinese Medicine performed a large analysis that showed " patients who were taking medications or herbal treatments t...