Experts Warn of Sleep Symptoms That May Signal Serious Health Issues

Sleep expert Prof. Rivi Tauman discusses common sleep disturbances and their potential health implications. While occasional poor sleep is normal due to stress or noise, some symptoms occurring during sleep may indicate disorders or diseases requiring medical attention. Excessive daytime fatigue is often the first sign of nighttime problems, though many attribute it to lifestyle factors rather than underlying conditions.

Key warning signs include waking up gasping or choking, which may indicate sleep apnea, a condition where airway obstruction causes breathing pauses. Loud, persistent snoring, especially with breathing interruptions or daytime sleepiness, also warrants evaluation. Other symptoms such as sleepwalking, talking during sleep, and recurring nightmares can be linked to stress, medication, or sleep disorders and may require medical assessment.

Frequent nighttime urination (nocturia) can signal underlying medical issues like urinary infections or prostate enlargement. Bruxism, or teeth grinding during sleep, often related to stress or sleep apnea, can cause jaw pain and dental damage. Falling asleep immediately upon lying down or dozing off in inappropriate situations may suggest chronic sleep deprivation or disorders like narcolepsy.

An unusual condition called sleep-related eating disorder involves eating or cooking while asleep, posing safety risks. Monitoring devices like smartwatches can help detect abnormal sleep patterns, though they cannot diagnose conditions. Experts recommend tracking sleep data for two to three weeks and consulting a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.