What are the most common sleep disorders?

💤 The Most Common Sleep Disorders and How to Manage Them

😴 Why So Many of Us Struggle to Sleep

For many people in the UK, getting a good night’s sleep isn’t as easy as it sounds. Millions experience sleep disorders that range from mild to severe — from common issues like insomnia to rarer conditions such as sleep apnea or night terrors.

Some people go through short periods of poor sleep, but for others, these problems can last years and take a serious toll on their health, relationships and quality of life.

Here’s a look at some of the most common sleep disorders — what causes them, their symptoms and what you can do to prevent or manage them.

🚶♂️ Sleepwalking

Causes:
Sleepwalking can be triggered by certain medications, alcohol consumption, illness or extended periods of poor-quality sleep.

Symptoms:
Getting up and walking around while asleep — sometimes as harmless as walking across the room, but it can occasionally become dangerous (e.g. going downstairs or leaving the house). Some sleepwalkers even attempt everyday tasks such as making food or brushing their teeth while asleep.

Treatment:

• Keep a calm, quiet sleep environment
• Maintain a regular bedtime routine
• Reduce caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evenings
• Try to manage stress and fatigue, which often trigger episodes

🛏️ Read more about sleepwalking and how to stop it.

🌙 Insomnia

Causes:
Insomnia can be triggered by stress, anxiety, depression, or lifestyle factors such as excess caffeine, alcohol or irregular sleep schedules. Some medications can also make it worse.

Symptoms:
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep — often for three months or longer. Occasional sleepless nights are normal, but chronic insomnia can affect concentration, mood and overall health.

Treatment:

• Practise relaxation rituals before bed (try a warm bath or gentle yoga)
• Avoid screens and bright lights in the evening
• Try reading or using calming scents instead of scrolling
• For persistent cases, your doctor may recommend cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or medication

🛏️ Read more about insomnia and how to manage it.

🦵 Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Causes:
The exact cause isn’t fully known, but RLS often runs in families and may be linked to iron deficiency, certain medications or pregnancy.

Symptoms:
An irresistible urge to move or stretch your legs (or arms), usually in the evening or when you’re resting. This makes falling asleep difficult and can lead to restless nights and daytime fatigue.

Treatment:

• Do light exercise during the day
• Cut down on alcohol and caffeine
• Use a supportive pillow to ease pressure on your joints
• In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe medication

💤 The Kally Knee Pillow offers gentle ergonomic support — ideal for restless sleepers or anyone who needs better leg alignment.

🛏️ Read more about Restless Legs Syndrome.

😴 Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Causes:
Snoring is caused by a partial blockage of the throat, whereas sleep apnea involves repeated complete blockages that stop you from breathing temporarily during sleep.

Symptoms:

• Loud or disruptive snoring
• Pauses in breathing during sleep
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth or sore throat
• Persistent daytime drowsiness

Treatment:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed
• Sleep on your side instead of your back
• In serious cases, your doctor may recommend a CPAP machine to keep airways open

🛏️ The Kally Adjustable Pillow is specially designed to improve airflow and reduce snoring naturally.

💤 Read more about snoring and sleep apnea.

😬 Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Causes:
Usually triggered by stress, anxiety or an uneven bite.

Symptoms:

• Waking with a sore jaw or headache
• Teeth that become worn down or chipped over time
• Jaw tension or pain during the day

Treatment:

• Reduce stress and unwind before bed
• Avoid caffeine or alcohol late at night
• Ask your dentist about a custom mouth guard for nighttime use

🕯️ A calm routine before bed — with soft lighting and relaxation scents — can make a big difference.

🌙 Final Thoughts: Finding Your Way Back to Restful Sleep

If any of these sleep disorders sound familiar, remember — you’re not alone. Millions of people deal with similar challenges every night. The key is to identify what’s affecting your sleep and take small, consistent steps to improve it.

Some treatments are as simple as lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies, while others require professional advice. Either way, don’t give up — with the right support, better sleep is always possible.

At Kallysleep, our mission is to help you sleep comfortably and confidently with expert-designed products that address real sleep issues.

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