Doctor's column: why you sleep poorly and what to do about it

Dr. Yuri Suponitsky debunks myths about sleep and explains six main groups of sleep disorders: hypersomnolence, apnea, parasomnias, restless legs syndrome, insomnia, and circadian rhythm disorders. The article is educational in nature.

Dr. Yuri (Uri) Suponitsky, a specialist in anesthesiology and intensive care, in his column debunks common myths about sleep and explains the main sleep disorders. He refutes legends that Napoleon, Thatcher, and Churchill slept 4 hours, and that older people need less sleep. The author describes in detail the phases of sleep (REM and NREM) and two key regulatory mechanisms: circadian rhythms and homeostatic sleep pressure. He then lists six groups of disorders: hypersomnolence (excessive daytime sleepiness), sleep apnea (breathing pauses during sleep), parasomnias (sleepwalking, night terrors), restless legs syndrome, insomnia, and circadian rhythm disorders. The article is educational and urges readers to consult a doctor if they suspect these conditions.