Sleep Disorders: Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Sleep isn’t just rest — it’s one of the most powerful tools your body has for healing, brain function, mood regulation, and overall health. Yet many people across Arkansas struggle with sleep disorders that go undiagnosed and untreated.

According to Arturo Meade, MD, a physician with Baptist Health, sleep medicine continues to evolve, but one truth remains: poor sleep has real medical consequences — and treatment is available close to home.

If you live in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Fort Smith, or surrounding regional Arkansas communities, here’s what you should know about the most common sleep disorders, warning signs, and testing options.

The Most Common Sleep Disorders 

Sleep specialists at Baptist Health sleep clinics in Arkansas frequently diagnose and treat:

Sleep Apnea

A serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It’s often linked to loud snoring, gasping, or choking sounds — sometimes first noticed by a bed partner.

Untreated sleep apnea is linked to:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Daytime fatigue and accidents

Sleep apnea is one of the most common reasons patients in Arkansas seek sleep testing.

Insomnia

Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early and not feeling rested. Insomnia can impact mood, memory, job performance, and overall quality of life.

Narcolepsy

A neurological disorder affecting the brain’s sleep-wake control. People with narcolepsy may experience overwhelming daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep episodes.

Sleep medicine providers at Baptist Health also manage Circadian rhythm disorders (when your internal clock is off) and Parasomnias (unusual behaviors during sleep like sleepwalking). 

How Much Sleep Do Adults in Arkansas Need?

Most adults need about 8 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, though individual needs vary.

• Short sleepers may function well on 5 hours
• Long sleepers may need up to 10 hours

The key factor is how you feel during the day. If you’re always tired, your sleep may not be restorative.

When Should You See a Doctor About Sleep Problems?

Dr. Meade recommends talking with your primary care provider if you:

• Fall asleep during the day — especially while driving or at work
• Wake up feeling unrefreshed
• Snore loudly
• Have pauses in breathing during sleep (often reported by a partner)

These symptoms may signal a treatable sleep disorder. Your provider can refer you to a Baptist Health sleep specialist in Arkansas.

Sleep Testing Options at Baptist Health

After an evaluation, patients may be scheduled for a sleep study.

Home Sleep Test (Outpatient)

• Completed in the comfort of your home
• Primarily detects sleep apnea
• Ideal for otherwise healthy patients with classic symptoms
• May underestimate severity in some cases

In-Lab Sleep Study (Polysomnography)

This comprehensive overnight study at a Baptist Health Sleep Center monitors:

• Breathing
• Brain waves
• Heart rhythm
• Body movements

It helps diagnose a wide range of sleep disorders, not just apnea.

Sleep Hygiene Tips from Baptist Health

Healthy sleep habits can make a major difference:

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
• Use your bed only for sleep
• Avoid TV and blue-light devices before bed
• Avoid heavy meals and caffeine late in the day
• Avoid daytime naps

Why Sleep Health Matters

Sleep medicine technology and treatments are advancing rapidly, but the most important step is recognizing when sleep issues are affecting your health.

If you live in Arkansas and don’t feel rested, your body may be trying to tell you something. The sleep specialists at Baptist Health can help identify the cause and guide you toward better sleep — and better overall health.

Concerned about your sleep? Talk with your provider about a referral for a sleep evaluation near you.