Possible Sleep Disorder?

[Qaws948]

I was told when I was 22 that I snore. Now 20 years later I am told I still snore. I exercise for an hour a day. My problem is for the last 20 years I have had or developed these symptoms:

1. Listless most of the day. Need a 2 hour nap in the afternoon every 3rd day or so. Often feel drained in the morning. Feel better and awake in the evening. Going on for 20 years.
2. Glazed, tired eyes (while most people's are open and bright). Going on for 20 years.
3. Was always slim and still am to a large degree but some belly fat starting at age 30. Now have double chin.

Today I looked in the mirror saw my glazed eyes and I need to do something to get to the bottom of this. Could this be sleep related? What kind of check up do I need?

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Tell me more about yourself.

What is your typical day like?
Does your job entail that you read a lot, use the computer a lot?
Do you usually stay up late at night?
Do you have any specific food preference?
Do you exercise everyday?

Unless, there seems to be a drastic change in your physical appearance that may cause some alarm (eg unexplained weight loss, protruding eyes as in thyroid disorders, yellowing of the skin) there seems to be no urgent problem.

Have you been under a great deal of stress lately?

I suggest you see a psychologist who may help you.You might need someone to talk to and this may be therapeutic.

Relax and have a good time with friends. Make yourself over just for fun.Spend more time with yourself and your loved ones.

I hope things will get better. Keep us posted for anything.

[Qaws948]

Thank you for your reply but I must streess:

My eyes are glazed over and it looks like I'm barely awake. This has been the situation for about 20 years! People to seem to be fine with me (except for the occassional comment "You look really tired" but when I look in the mirror I see someone who has some major problem.

I feel ok to good usually but definitely listless/hazy in the day. I think I may have a medical problem related to sleep but that's just my theory.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

How do you feel today?

There seems to be no cause of alarm here unless your snoring makes you wake up each night to catch your breath.

Does this happen?

Stress related to home and work may affect sleep. Hormonal changes, depression, some medications and chronic pain disorders may disrupt sleep.Do you experience any of these?

Take time to relax everyday.There is nothing wrong with taking short naps everyday. Sleeping at a regular time and avoiding unnecessary reading or watching tv while in bed can help  you get a good sleep.

A little rest and relaxation will help keep you young and vibrant. Eat well, exercise daily at least 20 to 30 minutes in most days of the week.Take plenty of water. Engage in meditative exercises and this will help you sooth your mind and help restore the body.

If your snoring persists you may consult an ENT specialist who may give you a thorough assessment of your air passages. Otherwise, you seem to be fine.

Keep us posted.