There are many types of sleep disorders. Some of them are a mystery to physicians and are still being researched. A few of the more common sleep disorders are:

1. Restless Legs Syndrome: a disorder causing an urge to move limbs. This urge is at times overwhelming and uncontrollable.

2. Periodic Limb Movement Disorder: this is an involuntary rhythmic movement of the limbs. This can be any of the limbs and happens at random.

3. Insomnia: A chronic inability to sleep for any fair length of time. This condition is often temporary and often caused due to stress.

4. Sleep Apneas: A gasping for air, chocking, loud snoring or never getting a refreshing sleep.

5. Narcolepsy: Uncontrollable urge to fall asleep. Inability to stay awake for long periods. This condition is even known to cause people to fall asleep unexpectedly in the middle of an activity or conversation. There is no rhythm to when this happens to them.

A large number of people in our society suffer from sleep disorders of some type. The causes of these disorders are varied. Some of them are due to stress or trauma in their lives. Some of the causes are still unknown. There are a variety of medications available and are often prescribed for helping the symptoms of these disorders.

Not being able to get a proper night's sleep can reap havoc in a person's life. It can cause them to be inattentive and accident prone as well as deplete their immune system leaving them at risk for illness and injury. The lack of sleep does not just make a person sleepy, it affects so many other parts of their life.

If you are having trouble sleeping or sleeping and finding that you do not feel refreshed when you awake, consider seeking help from a professional. You may find that you have a treatable sleep disorder and could be back on the track to rest before you know it.