Sleep Disorders: 5 Facts Every Adult Should Know (and When to See a Doctor)

Most adults have an occasional rough night. But when poor sleep becomes the norm, it can affect your mood, focus, heart, metabolism, and safety. The good news: many sleep disorders are very treatable once they are identified. Here are five facts worth knowing, plus guidance on when to talk with a clinician at Meridian Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine.

1. Adults need at least seven hours of sleep, and many do not get it

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society recommend that adults sleep seven or more hours per night on a regular basis for optimal health (AASM). Yet in 2024, about 30.5% of U.S. adults slept less than seven hours in a typical 24-hour period, according to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics (CDC/NCHS).

2. “Sleep disorder” covers many different conditions

Sleep medicine recognizes dozens of distinct disorders. Common ones include:

Insomnia – trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early, with daytime effects.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – repeated pauses or shallow breathing during sleep caused by airway narrowing.
Circadian rhythm disorders – a mismatch between your internal clock and your schedule, common with shift work.
Restless legs syndrome and other movement disorders.
Hypersomnias such as narcolepsy, which cause excessive daytime sleepiness.

Because symptoms overlap, a proper diagnosis matters. Treatment for insomnia looks very different from treatment for sleep apnea.

3. Sleep apnea is common and often goes undiagnosed

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute describes sleep apnea as a common and serious condition that is frequently underdiagnosed (NHLBI). Warning signs include:

Loud, frequent snoring, or a bed partner noticing pauses in breathing or gasping
Waking with a dry mouth or morning headaches
Daytime sleepiness, dozing while reading or driving
Trouble concentrating, irritability, or low mood
High blood pressure that is difficult to control

If several of these sound familiar, a sleep study may be recommended. Read our guide, Understanding Sleep Studies and Sleep Apnea Care, to learn how testing works and how to prepare.

4. Women report more trouble falling and staying asleep

CDC survey data show that women are more likely than men to report trouble falling asleep (18.5% vs. 12.2%) and trouble staying asleep (21.4% vs. 14.6%), and less likely to wake feeling well rested (CDC/NCHS). Hormonal changes, pregnancy, menopause, caregiving demands, anxiety, and pain can all contribute. These symptoms deserve attention rather than being dismissed as “just stress.”

5. Poor sleep is linked to other health conditions

Ongoing short or disrupted sleep is associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and depression (AASM). The relationship often runs both ways: depression and anxiety can disrupt sleep, and poor sleep can worsen mood. That is why Meridian’s sleep, primary care, and behavioral health teams coordinate care.

Simple habits that support better sleep

Keep a consistent wake time, even on weekends.
Limit caffeine in the afternoon and alcohol in the evening.
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet; put screens away before bed.
Get daylight and physical activity earlier in the day.
If you cannot sleep after about 20 minutes, get up and do something calm until you feel sleepy.

Healthy habits help, but they will not resolve sleep apnea or many other disorders on their own.

When to see a doctor about sleep

Talk with a clinician if poor sleep lasts more than a few weeks, affects your work or driving, or comes with loud snoring, breathing pauses, or unexplained daytime sleepiness. At Meridian, Dr. Naveed Shah, a board-certified pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist, evaluates and treats sleep apnea, insomnia, and breathing-related sleep problems. Learn more about Meridian Sleep Medicine.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral for a sleep evaluation?

Requirements depend on your insurance plan. Our front desk can help you understand next steps; see the Financial & Billing Guide for coverage basics.

Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?

No. Many people snore without sleep apnea, but loud snoring combined with breathing pauses, gasping, or daytime sleepiness should be evaluated.

Can sleep apnea be treated?

Yes. Depending on severity and your health, options may include positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, weight management, and other approaches your clinician will discuss with you.

Ready to sleep better?

Meridian Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine can help identify what is disrupting your sleep and coordinate testing and treatment.

Request an Appointment Call 301-627-3500

Sources

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Sleep Disorders: 5 Facts Every Adult Should Know (and When to See a Doctor)