Lack of Sleep- Can it Make you Sick?

Description: Sleep is essential. Not getting sufficient sleep can have untoward consequences.

Article:

Not getting enough sleep can affect the quality of your life, physical and mental health, relationships, performance at work, and thinking ability.

There are almost 80 different types of sleep disorders. The most common sleep disorders include-

• Insomnia- Cannot stay asleep through the night
• Restless legs syndrome- Legs feel uncomfortable and may have an urge to move them as you sleep
• Narcolepsy- Extremely sleepy during the day or may fall asleep suddenly
• Sleep apnea- Breathing is interrupted during sleep due to heavy snoring

Many people experience problems with sleep from time to time. Sleep disorders generally impair your sleep or prevent you from getting enough sleep, which could cause daytime sleepiness and other symptoms like-

• Difficulty sleeping
• Tiredness during the day 
• Impaired or reduced ability to perform daily activities
• Learning disabilities in children
• Memory impairment
• Personality changes 
• Depression 

Sleep loss can also adversely affect your life by contributing to the development of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

How much sleep is necessary?

In adults, it is recommended to have 7-9 hours of sleep daily, although some people may require more and less sleep.

What causes sleep disorders?

• Underlying health issues
• Psychiatric issues (such as depression and anxiety disorders)
• Environmental matters (such as alcohol)
• Disturbances in biological clocks
• Genetics (narcolepsy)
• Medications that interfere with sleep
• Ageing (over the age of 65)

Ways to Treat Sleep Disorders

A doctor may suggest medications or medical treatments based on the type of sleep disorder, which may include:

• Sleeping pills or melatonin supplements
• Changes in medications used for your underlying health issues
• An assistive breathing device or surgery (usually for sleep apnea)

Other lifestyle adjustments can also improve your sleep quality, along with medical treatments. 

• Maintaining a healthy diet while reducing sugar intake
• Regular exercise to reduce stress and anxiety
• Establishing a regular sleeping schedule
• Drinking less water before going to bed
• Limiting caffeine intake, especially late in the evening
• Cutting back on tobacco and alcohol
• Eating low-carbohydrate meals before bedtime

When to see a doctor?

Ask yourself these questions; if the answer is yes, it could signify a sleep disorder.

Difficulty concentrating?

Are you snoring very loudly?

Difficulty with your memory?

Do you have slowed responses?

Difficulty controlling your emotions?

Are you struggling to fall asleep daily?

Are you feeling tired even after a good sleep?

Are you frequently falling asleep while driving?

Are you finding it hard to do your regular day-to-day activities?

Consult a doctor about your sleep cycle if it disrupts your daily activities and quality of life.