Getting a good night's sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing. If you're having trouble sleeping, a sleep specialist can help you identify and treat the underlying cause. Sleep specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating sleep problems and disorders. There are several remedies for insomnia, such as drinking warm milk or chamomile tea before bed.
These are thought to have calming effects on the brain that make it easier to drift off. Sleep psychologists are another type of sleep specialist who focus on mental and behavioral issues that contribute to sleep problems. You can also buy tablets or liquids (sometimes called sleeping pills) at a pharmacy that can help you sleep better. Optimal sleep time varies by age; for example, children and teens may need more sleep than adults. Your doctor may recommend other strategies related to your lifestyle and sleep environment to help you develop habits that promote deep sleep and daytime alertness.
The behavioral part of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) helps you develop good sleep habits and avoid behaviors that prevent you from sleeping well. The International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD) classifies sleep disorders based on symptoms, how they affect the person (pathophysiology), and the body system they affect. A sleep specialist can diagnose and treat sleep disorders, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), or insomnia. You can search for an accredited sleep center through an organization such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine or the Narcolepsy Network. Your family doctor may recommend that you see a sleep specialist for a sleep study (polysomnography). After you have an exam, your doctor may refer you to a sleep specialist to evaluate you for obstructive sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.
Changing your sleep habits and addressing any problems that may be associated with insomnia, such as stress, medical conditions, or medications, can restore restful sleep for many people. A sleep specialist is a highly trained health professional who specializes in how sleep affects the body. Physicians who receive training in sleep medicine earn their certification from the American Board of Sleep Medicine, which is part of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Improve your sleep routine with Healthline-approved pillows, mattresses, and more to celebrate Sleep Awareness Week. Common sleep disorders prevent you from getting the deep, restful sleep you need to function at your best. If you're having trouble sleeping, don't hesitate to reach out to a qualified professional who can help you get back on track.
