What causes sleep disturbance?

A number of things: There could be sleep apnea. You could also have underlying depression as well, which can also disturb sleep. Caffeine may also disturb sleep, as can alcohol. You should definitely see a sleep specialist to go over all of your sleep habits and complaints to chart out a management plan. You may also need a sleep study in a hospital or sleep lab.

Sleep: We have a sleep wake switch in our hypothalamus, called the vlpo and scn they regulate our circadian rhythm and Adenosine build up while awake causes homoestatic drive, any damage to these structurally or functionally can cause sleep wake disturbances.

Sleep disturbance: For most people, unhelpful habits are at the root of sleep disturbance. But it is best to get a good assessment from a Psychologist expert in sleep disorders. CBT for Insomnia, Planned Dream Intervention for nightmares, and maybe a sleep study if organic cause is suspected.