Sleep problems are very common in the Western world. A sleep problem is more than just sleepiness and when you lack quality sleep it can result in serious accidents, emotional outbursts that affect relationships, health problems including mental health among numerous other issues. Sleep is important so it is important to seek medical advice if you feel you have a sleep problem.

Symptoms of Sleep Disorders - Everyone experiences the occasional sleep problem and getting a good night's rest. This is common because we live in a world of deadlines, exams and other temporary pressures that can cause us to feel stressed which can affect our sleep. When you lack sleep in this way you may feel a little foggy, unable to concentrate but as soon as the deadline is over or the stressor has passed you can go back to sleeping peacefully. However a sleep disorder is something experienced on a regular basis, despite stressors. But how do you tell if you problem is an ongoing issue or an isolated occasional occurrence?

The best way to determine whether you need to seek help with your sleep problems is to identify your symptoms and behaviors during the day. These can give you telltale signs of sleep deprivation.

If you experience any of the following you may have cause for concern:

• Irritability
• Feeling sleepy during the day
• Difficult staying awake when you sit still, read or watch TV
• Feel very tired while driving.
• Often get told you look tired.
• Feel emotional and have emotional outbursts.
• Slow reactions.
• Require caffeine to keep yourself going.
• Feel like taking a nap everyday.
• Difficult concentrating.

On top of these symptoms it is a good idea to make a note of your sleep habits and daily routine. Try writing it down and keeping a record of your sleep pattern and this will help your Doctor to diagnose you more efficiently and to help you overcome your problems. Some sleep problems resolve around trying to get the individual back into a normal sleep routine, so keeping record can help determine the best route of action.

Things you can include in your sleep diary may be:

• Time you go to bed and time you wake up (total hours of sleep)
• Quality of sleep
• What you have eaten and drank during the day
• How you feel before bed
• Drugs or medications you have taken

Details can be important in determining the cause and solution of your sleep problem. Diet and lifestyle play huge roles in sleep so try to write down everything you can.