Still, many Americans are not getting enough shut eye. The National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research estimates that 40 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep disorders and another 20-30 million experience sleep problems from time to time. Since sleep disorders increase with age, those suffering from chronic sleep disorders are expected to rise to 79 million and those suffering from intermittent problems to increase to 40 million by 2010.

Ready to get a better night's sleep?

The sleep disorder specialists at the Sleep Lab Center are here to help. Specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of such disorders, they will help identify the problem so you can get proper treatment--and the rest you deserve.

Common Sleep Disorders

Gastroesophageal Reflux--A disorder caused when acid from the stomach travels backwards into the esophagus during the night.

Insomnia--The most common sleep disorder, insomniacs have difficulty falling asleep, wake often at night, wake up too early or do not feel refreshed upon waking in the morning.

Narcolepsy--Narcolepsy is a serious sleep disorder characterized by sudden and uncontrollable attacks of deep sleep. Extreme care must be taken with driving, operating machinery and water sports.

Parasomnias--Abnormal and recurrent nighttime behavior, such as sleepwalking, sleeptalking, nightmares, head banging, etc.

Restless Legs Syndrome--Individuals with this sleep disorder have a strong urge to move their legs. This need to move is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as creeping, itching or pulling. RLS symptoms start or become worse while resting or lying down.

Sleep apnea--Considered as common as adult diabetes, sleep apnea affects more than 12 million Americans, according to the NIH. Risk factors include being male, overweight, and over the age of 40, but sleep apnea can strike anyone at any age, even children. Snoring is often associated with this disorder.

Sleep myoclonus--This disorder is caused by excessive movement of the legs during sleep, which causes arousal. Also known as "leg jerks." (Myoclonus may be a symptom of a more complex and disturbing sleep disorder, such as restless legs syndrome.)